in praise of walking, part two

[snugglekitty]

So I just realized that I made a long post about the logistics of walking, without saying why I like it.



I love being outside and seeing the way the seasons change.

I love using my body and feeling it getting stronger.

I love feeling like I can always get from somewhere to somewhere else, even if I don't have a ride or a bus pass.

I love being with the company of my own thoughts and the quiet.

I love the way I feel after I take a long walk - pleasantly tired and relaxed.

I love being able to walk for longer and longer periods of time.

I love sharing walks with other serious walkers - like redjo, an_gadhar, and 7j. It's wonderful to talk and walk with someone else.

I love the way that you become intimately familiar with territory you have walked. It's totally different from seeing it from a car window or a bus.

I love walking meditation.



If the bike path really does get extended from Boston to Northampton, I would love to walk that sometime, at least once.

Comments

[srl.livejournal.com]

Much of this resonates with my experiences of long bike rides from this past summer.

Could you say more about your walking meditation practices? I'm curious.

[dalbino83.livejournal.com]

Yes, absolutely! I agree with lots of the things you love about walking.

So what's this about a bike path extension to Noho? How likely is it to happen, and how long will it take to implement?

[rantfaery.livejournal.com]

Boston to Northampton?? WOW! What an awesome thing to think about!
I too would love hearing about your walks. You're inspiring me to pop the little one into the jogging stroller and go for some long walks around my area as well. :-)

[lady-anemone.livejournal.com]

Could you say more about your walking meditation practices?

Sure. I usually start with the Standard Issue Tree of Life meditation (hey, my tree can walk). I also do standard Buddhist walking meditation, focusing on the act of walking and the soles of my feet, being aware of what I see without engaging with anything. But in general, I find walking to be a great time to let my mind empty out.

[lady-anemone.livejournal.com]

The transportation bill is for a nationwide six-year plan. I can't find the link that had more details. Sorry!

[lady-anemone.livejournal.com]

Okay, thanks!