Take a Stupid Walk
We all have those bad days when we just want to hole up in our rooms, scroll on TikTok, and isolate ourselves from the outside world.
While this sounds ideal in theory, it can sometimes leave us feeling in an even worse mood than before we started.
What maybe doesn’t sound so appealing but can actually be really beneficial in these moments is a walk.
Taking a “stupid little walk” is trending on TikTok right now–and we gave our take to Bustle, which you can read here.
Let’s go deeper into why a “stupid little walk” can actually boost your mental health:
Feel Good Hormones
Walking releases feel-good hormones that can calm our nervous system and relieve our stress. This makes a walk an ideal way to feel more grounded when your body is disregulated, whether you feel stressed, anxious, sad, or angry.
Emotional Processing
Walking is a form of bilateral stimulation, as it involves alternating leg movement, which engages both sides of the brain. As a result, it supports the integration of emotions. If you go on a walk while in a bad mood, and lean into these feelings on the walk, it can actually help to process these feelings. As you walk, you might notice experiencing more clarity and less distress.
Connection to Nature
Being around nature can give us a greater purpose and allow us to feel more connected. Nature can also bring us peace and create the perfect environment to practice mindfulness. Focusing on your surroundings as you walk can ground you in the present moment.
Can you hear birds chirping? Can you feel warmth on your skin?
You can even choose a color and focus on finding this color around you as you walk.
Change of Scenery
The act of leaving your house alone goes a long way. A change of scenery can serve as a mental reset. Sometimes all it takes is leaving an environment to clear your head and gain a new perspective.
Final Takaway
Taking a “stupid little walk” is actually quite smart, and can lead to mental clarity, improved mood, and a sense of peace. Here are some signs to know when it might be a good time for a “stupid little walk.”
I challenge you to push through your desire to isolate yourself and get up and start walking–even if it’s just for five minutes. It’s totally okay if you hole up after. Notice how you feel afterward–any different from when you started?
Taking a walk is one of many mental resets–if you’re looking for some more ideas for quick resets–check out this blog.
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