The Power of a Little Walk

Whether you’re an athlete or not, moving your body has incredible benefits for both your mind and your mood.

Do you ever catch yourself pacing when you’re anxious, deep in thought, or on the phone? There’s actually a biological reason for that. Walking is one of our most natural self-soothing practices, rooted in evolution—our ancestors walked or ran to escape danger. On top of that, walking activates the creative parts of your brain. Some of history’s greatest thinkers, like Aristotle, were known for walking obsessively while pondering big ideas.

The best part is, you don’t need a hiking trail to tap into this. A slow loop around your room, a stroll through your office hallway, or even a wander down your driveway can calm your nervous system and spark new ideas. You might be surprised by how much more you notice, and how much clearer you feel, after just a few steps.

So while the leaves are still falling, consider giving your mind a treat: take a short walk, let your thoughts breathe, and see what fresh ideas start to drift in with the autumn air.

While a walk is a great first step, persistent anxiety or lack of creative motivation can often benefit from targeted mental health support. Carve Your Own Path provides counseling and therapy to help you consistently access your clearest thinking and greatest sense of calm. Discover how we can support your mental and emotional well-being today on our website.

Written by: Molly Gilreath, BSW Intern at CYOP

Inspired by: https://www.inc.com/jessica-stillman/the-science-of-why-you-do-your-best-thinking-while-walking.html