Walking into Happiness

Most people see walking as a matter of numbers. Nine – Ten thousand steps a day. So many kilometres covered. So many calories burned. A sure way to control your weight, keep the doctor at bay, and if the insurance companies are to be believed even earn you a lower premium.

But I’ve learned that there’s another side to walking. A quieter, deeper side. One that rarely makes it into fitness trackers or health blogs. It is the side where the body falls into rhythm, and the mind begins to wander freely. Where each step takes you not only along a path, but inward, into yourself.

I am not a regular walker but I enjoy whatever short walks I can fit in here and there. When I walk the village trails, there’s the crunch of gravel underfoot, the faint rustle of leaves as the wind moves through the trees, the occasional call of a distant bird. Out by the edge of the woods, the air smells of pine, oaks, and damp earth. The sunlight falls in dapples, and shadows stretch lazily across the ground. Sometimes I carry my camera, hoping to capture a few good photographs. Other days, it’s just my phone in my pocket. And lately, there are days when I take no electronics at all.

It is here, in these moments of walking, that my thoughts slow down. Here, the noise of the world recedes, and I can hear the softer voices, the ones drowned out by daily life. I find myself contemplating things I didn’t even know I needed to think about. Sometimes I untangle a knot in my mind without even trying. Other times, I simply let my thoughts drift like leaves on a stream. From interesting concepts that I can use in my orchard and homestay, to ideas that I can discuss with my family and friends. Every walk gives me something to be happy about.

These walks are not just exercise. They are a kind of moving meditation. They are my sanctuary, my pause button, my way of returning to myself. Sometimes, when I can’t go out on the road and towards the nearby temple and village, I ope for walking around in the orchard. Since I know the nooks and corners of my orchard, I am able to relax my mind even better.

One tool that initially helped me focus was my step counter. In the beginning, I had a clear goal to hit and somehow, with every step I took, I subconsciously felt a little healthier. These days, I rarely glance at the counter. My step count has probably dropped, but my mindfulness while walking and the happiness I feel during those walks has grown. Once the rains pass, I hope my steps will rise again. But for now, I’m content knowing that each walk, no matter the distance, leaves me lighter in spirit.

Yes, walking will make you fitter, especially if you go for long fast walks. Yes, it will strengthen your heart and clear your lungs. But the greatest gift it offers is invisible a deep, unshakable peace that lingers long after you’ve returned home.

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