Life can get a little… well, a lot. Sometimes it feels like you’re just carried along by the current, with barely a moment to catch your breath. If you’ve ever felt that way, know you’re definitely not alone. For me, that feeling sparked a simple commitment: a five-mile walk every morning.
Honestly, it started with a whisper of a need – a gentle nudge to carve out a little space that was just for me. Between you and me, those quiet moments can feel like gold dust sometimes, right? So, before the hustle and bustle truly kicks in, I slip on my shoes and head out into the still of the early morning.
Now, I won’t pretend every step is a thrilling adventure. Some days, the route is familiar, almost like an old friend. But even in that comfortable repetition, there’s a soothing rhythm. And you know what? Not once have I come back from one of these walks feeling worse than when I started. There’s something inherently good about simply moving your body.
Initially, the idea was pretty straightforward: get a little extra exercise, remind myself that my body enjoys stretching its legs rather than being glued to a chair. And yes, a little bit of quiet time was a big draw too. While I absolutely treasure the mornings when my sisters and Mom join me, those chats make the miles fly by! – These solo walks are my little pockets of peace. It’s my chance to let my thoughts wander without interruption, like gently sorting through the day’s possibilities while I get my heart rate up.
One of my favorite parts? Catching the sunrise. It’s like a little daily gift, a soft wash of color across the horizon. It’s a gentle reminder of the beauty that’s always there, even in the quietest hours. And somehow, seeing that new day dawn helps me get a better handle on what lies ahead. It’s a calm way to greet the day, rather than being thrown into the deep end.
The funny thing is, this little act of prioritizing myself actually seems to have a ripple effect. When I take that time to fill my own cup, even just a little bit, I find I have so much more to give to the people I care about. It’s like that saying about putting on your own oxygen mask first – taking care of myself allows me to be more present and patient with everyone else. And the best part? Sometimes, after my quiet walk, my sister and my adorable baby niece join me, and those moments of connection feel even sweeter.
So, my five-mile walk isn’t some grand athletic feat. It’s just a simple, consistent way I’ve found to create a little calm in my day, to befriend my own thoughts, and ultimately, to show up as a slightly more grounded and friendly version of myself for everyone around me. And if you’re looking for a little more peace in your own life, maybe a gentle morning stroll could be your five-mile invitation to calm, too.
Sending you all my love. Until next time.
