Wandering Well: The Art of Joyful Walking.
Solvitur Ambulando: “It Is Solved By Walking”
Augustine of Hippo
Walking is more than just a form of physical exercise; it’s a gateway to mental clarity, spiritual connection, and personal discovery. For centuries, walking has been a means for women to break barriers, inspire change, and find solace. This article explores the history of women walkers, the reasons why we walk, and why walking is the ultimate wellness tool. We’ll also delve into the profound benefits of walking, with a special focus on the art of sauntering as described by Thoreau, and share some inspirational stories of well-known women walkers in history.
Table of Contents
- Wandering Well: The Art of Joyful Walking.
- History of Women Walkers
- Famous Women Walkers and Their Contributions
- Why We Walk
- Why Walking is the Perfect Wellness Tool
- Tips for a Successful Walking Practice
- The Art of Sauntering
- Inspirational Stories of Women Walkers
- Georgia O’Keeffe’s Walking Journey
- Walking and Brain Function
- Walking and Mental Health
- Final Thoughts
- References
History of Women Walkers
Women and Walking in Different Cultures and Societies
Throughout history, women have walked for various reasons, transcending mere transportation. In many cultures, walking has been a vital part of daily life, often interwoven with traditions and rituals. In the 19th century, walking also became a symbol of women’s rights and independence.
Walking as a Form of Protest and Activism
Walking has been a powerful tool for protest and activism. For instance, in the early 20th century, the suffragettes in the United Kingdom organized marches to demand the right to vote. These marches were not just about reaching a destination but about making a statement. Similarly, the American civil rights movement saw many women walk miles in solidarity and protest, with figures like Rosa Parks and Harriet Tubman leading the way.
Famous Women Walkers and Their Contributions
Harriet Tubman
Harriet Tubman, an escaped slave, walked countless miles to lead others to freedom via the Underground Railroad. Her bravery and relentless spirit are a testament to the power of walking as a tool for liberation and change.
Mary Wollstonecraft
Mary Wollstonecraft, an advocate for women’s rights, was known for her long walks through the English countryside. Her walking provided the solitude needed to pen influential works like “A Vindication of the Rights of Woman,” laying the groundwork for feminist thought.
Why We Walk
Physical Benefits of Walking
Walking is an excellent low-impact exercise that improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and enhances joint flexibility. According to health experts, walking 10,000 steps a day, which is roughly equivalent to 5 miles, can significantly improve overall health.
Mental Health Benefits of Walking
Walking has profound effects on mental health. It helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Regular walking can also boost self-esteem and improve mood, thanks to the release of endorphins.
Spiritual Aspects of Walking
Walking is often seen as a form of moving meditation. It allows individuals to connect with nature, reflect on their lives, and find spiritual solace. The Latin phrase “solvitur ambulando,” meaning “it is solved by walking,” attributed to St. Augustine, beautifully captures the essence of finding solutions through walking.
Why Walking is the Perfect Wellness Tool
Low-Impact Exercise
Walking is accessible to almost everyone. It’s gentle on the joints, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. This inclusivity makes walking the perfect wellness tool.
Benefits of Walking 1 Hour Every Day
Walking for just one hour a day every day can lead to significant health improvements. It can aid in weight management, enhance cardiovascular health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension. Daily walking promotes consistent physical activity, which is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It helps regulate sleep patterns, boosts energy levels, and enhances overall mood and mental well-being. I have been walking 5 miles every day for over three DECADES! In addition to daily walking, I have backpacked for months at a time, and walked about 800 miles across Europe.
The Social Benefits of Walking
Walking can also be a social activity. Group walks can build a sense of community and provide a support system, encouraging more regular physical activity.
Tips for a Successful Walking Practice
Setting Goals and Tracking Progress
Start with realistic goals and gradually increase your walking distance and pace. Using a pedometer or a fitness app to track your steps can help keep you motivated.
Incorporating Walking into Daily Routines
Make walking a part of your daily life. Walk to work, take the stairs, or enjoy a post-dinner stroll. The key is consistency.
Choosing the Right Gear for Walking
Invest in comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing to ensure a pleasant walking experience.
The Art of Sauntering
Thoreau’s Philosophy on Sauntering
Henry David Thoreau believed in the art of sauntering—walking leisurely without haste, allowing oneself to be fully present in the moment. He described it as an almost spiritual practice, where one can reconnect with nature and the self.
Sauntering for Mindfulness and Presence
When we saunter, we slow down and notice the world around us. This mindful walking can reduce stress, increase awareness, and promote a deep sense of peace.
Inspirational Stories of Women Walkers
Emma Gatewood
Emma Gatewood, also known as Grandma Gatewood, was the first woman to hike the Appalachian Trail solo in one season. She was 67 years old when she started, proving that age is just a number when it comes to walking.
Cheryl Strayed
Cheryl Strayed’s memoir “Wild” recounts her journey of self-discovery as she hiked the Pacific Crest Trail. Her story has inspired many to take up walking as a means of healing and personal growth.
Rebecca Solnit
Rebecca Solnit, an author and historian, has written extensively about walking. Her book Wanderlust: A History of Walking explores the cultural and historical significance of walking, especially for women.
Annabel Abbs
Annabel Abbs’s Windswept: Walking the Paths of Trailblazing Women is one of my favorite books of all time. I’ve posted on it before; it is a beautifully written meditation on connecting with the outdoors through the simple act of walking. A simple joy rebellion.
Georgia O’Keeffe’s Walking Journey
The Influence of Nature on O’Keeffe’s Art
Georgia O’Keeffe, renowned for her vibrant paintings of flowers, skyscrapers, and southwestern landscapes, was also an avid walker. Her long walks in the rugged terrain of New Mexico were not just a means of exercise but a profound source of inspiration for her art.
O’Keeffe’s Daily Walking Routine
O’Keeffe’s daily routine often included extensive walks through the New Mexico desert. These solitary walks allowed her to immerse herself in the natural beauty of the landscape, observing the intricate details of the flora and the vastness of the sky. She once said, “I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way—things I had no words for.”
Walking as a Creative Process
For O’Keeffe, walking was an integral part of her creative process. The act of walking helped her clear her mind and connect deeply with her surroundings, translating her observations and emotions onto the canvas. The shifting light and shadows, the colors of the desert, and the unique rock formations she encountered on her walks all found their way into her paintings.
Legacy of O’Keeffe’s Walks
O’Keeffe’s walks in New Mexico were more than just a personal pastime; they were a pivotal element of her artistic legacy. Her ability to capture the essence of the southwestern landscape in her work continues to inspire artists and nature enthusiasts alike. Her walks exemplify how deeply personal and spiritual the act of walking can be, influencing not only physical health but also creative and emotional well-being.
Georgia O’Keeffe’s walking journey is a testament to the power of nature to fuel creativity and the profound impact that walking can have on an artist’s work. Her legacy reminds us that sometimes, the simplest acts, like walking, can lead to the most profound discoveries and creations.
Walking and Brain Function
Cognitive Benefits of Walking
Walking has been shown to improve cognitive function. It enhances memory, attention, and creativity. Regular walking can also reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. UMD did a study that found brain connectivity and memory improve after walking. Here’s another great study measuring daily walkers over time. The evidence is clear: KEEP WALKING!
Walking and Creativity
Many great thinkers, including Aristotle and Beethoven, were known for their long walks. Walking stimulates the brain, fostering creative thinking and problem-solving.
Walking and Mental Health
Walking to Reduce Anxiety and Depression
Studies have shown that walking can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The combination of physical activity, fresh air, and exposure to nature works wonders for mental health.
Walking as a Form of Therapy
Walking therapy, where counseling sessions are conducted while walking, is gaining popularity. It combines the benefits of traditional therapy with the positive effects of walking, creating a holistic approach to mental health care.
Final Thoughts
Walking is a powerful and transformative practice. Whether you’re walking for physical health, mental well-being, or spiritual growth, the benefits are immense. By embracing the art of walking and sauntering, you can embark on a personal and spiritual quest that leads to a healthier, happier, and more fulfilled life. So, put on your walking shoes, step outside, and let the journey begin!
References
- Thoreau, H. D. (1862). “Walking.”
- Solnit, R. (2000). “Wanderlust: A History of Walking.”
- Strayed, C. (2012). “Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail.”
- Tubman, H. (19th Century). Biography and historical contributions.
- Gatewood, E. (20th Century). Appalachian Trail achievements.
