Cassandra Gardiner returns with this week’s offering. Guest opinion articles do not necessarily reflect the views of the publication. Ed
If you walk alone it’s very peaceful and the simple rhythm of movement, soothing. It’s a good way to mull, and explore thoughts. Perhaps being in the open allows ideas to take form, expanding into consciousness; whilst the view is pleasing and you are alone with nature, the concealed mind can rise-up adding to our over-riding daily musings. A nice way to free-think away from clatter and chatter.
In the spring, rambling in woodlands and coming across blankets of bluebells is truly delightful. Walking by the sea is different everyday; on a misty day when the view is limited and haunting, or in the rain, when wetness blurs vision, knowing you will return home, challenged, but secretly pleased with yourself.
Physically one of the least demanding forms of exercise, free unless you need to travel to a favourite destination and arguably one of the most beautiful. Maybe because it’s so available, it’s somewhat overlooked.
Exhilarating landcsapes
A few weeks ago I joined two friends and we drove to Culver Down. It was a breathtaking view, blue sky, a few bouncy clouds, radiant colours and a soft wind. So exhilarating to walk high up looking down on the towns, pasture-land, trade ships waiting to dock, the Roman Villa and rabbits grazing in the sun.
The discreet feeling of sharing this with my companions, whilst talking music, books and a couple of plays, wrapped in the landscape, listening with interest to each other’s taste and viewpoints.
We spoke freely and passionately, our opinions mingling warmly like the breeze.
A sense of liberation
It was probably about an hour and a half before we headed back, all three of us refreshed and jubilant. There were numerous benefits gained, for me the best was the liberation. Speaking honestly, my beliefs and the true extent of my knowledge, in many cases lack of.
The pleasure of the walk over-rode any inhibitions or requirements endured when in a meeting or confined space. Perhaps it was the fresh air, the bright day, my frame of mind or the company, but I believe it was more. To be away from structure and in colourful, flowing surroundings, allowed me to breath and say what I wanted to say, with acceptance.
To read more of Cassandra Gardiner‘s work, visit her blog.
Image: pikerslanefarm/ under CC BY 2.0
