Raise your hand if you gained weight after 2020. Raise your hand again if you realized that you need to do something about it. Quick question – After pondering what you need to do, are you consistently doing the necessary steps to improve your health?
Answers:
Yes? Congratulations!
Maybe? Still having indecisions huh?
No? Well, thank you for being honest.
2021 began and here we are and it is already March 2021. Wow, time flies so fast. I just realized that I need to make a decision fast to improve my weight. After thinking for some time about what I am going to do, I came to the conclusion that the most realistic thing for me to do as a busy mother of three is to WALK. Yes, my friend, WALK. I said to myself ” SHIRIN, START WALKING! Keep on walking. “
I am not here to preach about healthy eating, dieting or exercise regimen. My intention is to write in my blog my journey in walking.
It all started when I felt heaviness on my muffin top aka my tummy. My youngest son loves to play with my “ jiggly jelly” tummy as my son would say. Yes, it felt cute. It sounded cute but health-wise, it isn’t.
So I made a decision to throw the idea to my friends about walking every Friday with me. Lo and behold, one soul aka Sylas said yes!
4 pm on the 5th of February 2021, my friend and I started walking in two suburbs Alexandra Hills and Capalaba. It took us 2 hours and 10 minutes to finish the route.
We walked every Friday in a different route/suburb to explore other areas. Here is what we discovered through the weeks in our journey.
- There are so many things we take for granted.
I have been driving on the same road for a decade and I just discovered -which means observed with focused attention, the trees near the footpath. I stopped and marveled at their beauty. When was the last time you stopped and touched the leaves of the trees?
Walking in the neighbourhood will make you take notice of the flowers of someone’s garden. The shrubs and bushes are well-taken cared of. Even the mail box is in perfect condition.
The fluffy white clouds in the massive blue sky looked picturesque when you pay attention.
- Going uphill is challenging but rewarding.
As beginners, walking uphill was a test of our stamina. My heart began beating fast, beads of sweat start to show on my forehead and every step was like a shocking task to perform.
When we reached the flat ground, our faces showed the wonderful feeling of relief that we survived that. Yes, you may think it was not a huge deal. However, for us it was! It was like one step at a time towards good health! Cue in the song “ Rocky Theme”.
We did something different and we plan it that way.
- Bring the essential things of course.
You have to bring a back pack if you are planning to walk for more than an hour. After putting on sunscreen, insect repellent and a hat, your bag must contain the following:
- Smart phone
- Water bottle
- Credit card/cash
- Towel if you sweat a lot
Bring other things that you may need for your health and safety.
- Dog owners are friendly individuals.
I love dogs, I really do. At the moment, it is not practical for me to own one. However, no matter what breed of dogs I see, the majority of dog owners are friendly persons. I don’t know if this is just a coincidence. They are generous with their smiles, and some even say hello! I have faith in humanity!
They walk, greet and smile. What a friendly combination.
- It is a free exercise.
I love free food. It is natural for me to also love free exercise. Walking is one of them. Isn’t it wonderful to do something good for your body without paying any cent?
- Walking makes you feel good!
I read in one article about the exercise high. Well, on my part , I feel good after I walk. It makes me walk even taller because I chose to spend my time wisely. What a confidence boost! I made the right choice! I do not feel bloated anymore. It is like passing the Adult101 course on responsibility.
- It is better to walk with a friend.
Don’t get me wrong. I can walk all by myself. I already did it. It is uplifting when you want to think and be left alone with your thoughts.
However, when you walk with a friend, you don’t even notice the time. Through conversations, it nurtures friendship. Sharing laughter with someone does not make you look like you are losing your mind in the street.
I even told my friend “Let’s be physically fit so we can enjoy not only our loved ones but our future grandchildren as well.”
- Be mindful of the vehicles, road and traffic rules.
Safety first my friend. Enough said.
- You appreciate what other people’s properties have!
We saw a house with an almost perfectly manicured lawn. We didn’t even want to step on it. Impressive architectural designs of homes with amazing gardens make you pause and appreciate the creativity and patience put into it. It can give you great ideas too!
- You become aware of the number of your steps each day of your life.
I saw the insights of the app regarding my steps. You can immediately see the day of walking 13,000 steps and the other day of 400 steps. A friend saw it and teased, “Is it Netflix day?” *giggles*
The app reminds me to go back on track and continue walking (leisurely) even during the weekdays. Health is wealth.
Keep on walking can also have a deep meaning. There are ups and downs in life. We may trip, stumble, fall but the important thing is to GET BACK UP AGAIN. It may feel like you have a bruised leg (or ego) but it is important to remember the lesson and move on.
Walking makes you feel light as it gradually gives you more energy than before. The light within is turned on as well. It makes you feel great that an afternoon is well-spent which the moment will never come back again.
My dear reader, if you decide you want to start walking, may you encounter beautiful views or inspiring people that will brighten up your day. Take care.
