I have quickly learned that college can get very overwhelming very fast. Between classes, assignments, social plans, and everything else, it can feel like there is never enough time to relax and take a break. For me, the best way to escape is to go for a walk. Putting on a cute workout set, throwing on my headphones, and letting my body move has quickly become addictive and the best way to clear my mind. Whether I’m stressed, bored, or just need some time to myself, going on a walk always seems to make me feel better. And after thinking about it for a while, I’ve come up with my top five reasons why walking is the best form of therapy.
One: It Clears Your Mind
College can feel like you’re moving at 100 miles per hour all the time. No time to rest, take a break, or even simply clear your mind. Whenever I want to just rot in my bed, I feel like I could be doing something better with my time. The best solution is taking a walk, especially when it’s nice out. Being alone with your thoughts, taking in the surroundings, and resting your social battery can be more beneficial than you think.
Two: It is the Perfect Excuse to Catch Up with Friends and Family
It’s hard to find the perfect time to catch up with friends and family. With so much constantly going on in college, it can be difficult to give them your undivided attention. Or, maybe, you have time, but you don’t want to disturb your roommate by being on the phone while they are trying to rest. Walking is the perfect time for a phone call. Bonus, calling friends and family distracts you from how long you have been walking and takes your mind off school.
Three: You Can Do It Anywhere, Anytime
All walking requires is sneakers. Once you carve out the time, and you can really do it anywhere. It helps you to gather information about your surroundings. When I first came to Wake, I had no idea what was around me. However, as I have continued to go on walks around campus, Reynolda, and the surrounding neighborhoods, I have been able to better understand where I am and how to get places. It also makes me realize how lucky I am to be at such a beautiful school.
Four: You Are Moving Your Body
Walking is a great form of exercise. In college, it is hard to find time to move your body enough, and moving your body is essential to staying healthy, which can be hard to prioritize. However, unlike some other forms of working out, walking can become addictive. It starts to no longer feel like a chore, but something to look forward to every day. I sometimes reward myself with a walk after a long day of classes because it feels so freeing.
Five: It Helps You Appreciate The Little Things
Walking makes you notice little things you might not have noticed before. For example, when you’re rushing to class, you might not notice how pretty the trees are, how nice the weather is, or even the little things happening around campus. Going on a walk gives you the chance to slow down and appreciate your surroundings. Sometimes, just being outside and taking it all in can completely change your mood and help you appreciate where you are.
At the end of the day, walking has become so much more than just a way to get exercise. It’s something I genuinely look forward to and one of the easiest ways to make myself feel better. Whether I’m having a stressful day or just need an excuse to get outside, a walk always seems to do the trick. So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, put on your favorite playlist, grab your sneakers, and go for a walk. You might just become as obsessed as I am.