Walking for the mind

Walking for the mind.

The third Article of mine was published

In THE HINDU-Metro Plus dtd. January 14^th, 2002.

Whether it is for pleasure or exercise, walking lifts your spirits. If cultivated assiduously, the habit can turn out to be your lifeline.

SHAPE UP, trim down, keep fit. Everyone advises exercise. It’s good for the body and soul. It helps one tackle the tasks for the day cheerfully and positively. But when you try, you run into trouble.

There is inertia to get up early in the morning, what with the rest of the family sleeping soundly. The mind and body are at conflict in most of us, with the body controlling the mind, instead of the other way.

However, there is one exercise that is truly beneficial. For most individuals, it is the easiest, one that can be done without any equipment, in most terrains and into very old age.

We are talking here about walking and the pleasures associated with it. A little bit of self-motivation and you are on your way.

Think of the ‘Nike’ appeal – ‘Just do it’. Walking is good for health. It’s easy, safe and all you require is a good pair of walking shoes, and you can get into this habit anywhere, any time. Take to it with an open mind and savour its pleasures.

The best time to go for a walk is in the morning just before day break. Set out to walk on the farthest side of the road against the oncoming traffic. Let the cool morning breeze tickle your body.

Listen to the sounds of nature, the chirping of birds, the cooing of the cuckoo, the gentle rustle of the trees, all so musical to the ear. Wrap yourself in the ambience of nature. As the sun rises, and the beautiful panorama unfolds before your eyes, let the visual experience sink in.

While you set your own speed for the walk, the distance to cover, the time taken to reach your destination, before you turn to get back to the starting point, keep your eyes and ears open to the passing of moving objects.

The sounds are equally musical. As you continue your brisk walk, observe the undulations of the road surface and stroll accordingly. It is also better to go for a long distance walk once in a week, and return by public transport or even by walk if you have the endurance and time at your disposal.

As you walk, let your mind wander. Just as your lungs need oxygen, your brain needs inspiration. So, every morning, walk for your mind.

Focus your thoughts on any subject of your choice of your choice – academic. Business, culture, entertainment, fashion, governance, music, religion, sports and a host of endless related issues. This is also a wonderful time to do some self-introspection.

There are solutions to all your problems. You begin to wonder at the vastness of your mind – a veritable universe to traverse. Solitude is the key to the pleasures you derive while walking.

Cultivate this habit lifelong. Seek the company of other people who have this habit, and continue to do so relentlessly and silently. Remember to make it a way of life.

M.V.MADHUSUDAN.