Lately, I’ve been thinking about how I choose to end my day.
I know many people like to go for a walk first thing in the morning, especially when it’s hot. We’ve had temperatures of around 30 degrees in the UK recently, so an early walk makes perfect sense.
But for me, I much prefer walking at the end of the day.
That’s when my “me time” arrives.
After a busy day, I put on my walking shoes and head to the park.
I know it helps me sleep because I’m not walking too close to bedtime, but there’s another reason I love it.
It’s my time to slow down.
As I walk, I find myself reflecting on the day. I think about what I did well, what I could have done better and what needs a little more work tomorrow.
The difference is that I’m doing it while surrounded by nature.
I’m touching the leaves as I walk.
The wild blackberries are beginning to appear now, and I can’t resist picking a few.
I listen to the birds singing.
Every now and again I spot the green parrots that live in the park.
I simply enjoy being there.
I feel grateful.
If I stayed at home trying to plan tomorrow’s blog sitting in front of my computer, I know I’d feel much more stressed.
Instead, I can think clearly while I’m walking.
Ideas seem to come naturally.
Everything feels calmer.
I’ve always believed that if you enjoy what you do, it doesn’t really feel like work.
For me, that’s exactly what these walks are.
They aren’t just exercise.
They’re time to think.
Time to breathe.
Time to appreciate what’s around me.
Time for me.
The longevity lesson today is this.
Looking after your health isn’t only about eating well.
It’s also about giving yourself time to slow down.
For me, that’s my evening walk.
It helps my body.
It helps my mind.
It helps me sleep.
And I know that all of those small things are an investment in my future health.
So let me leave you with one question.
What do you do each day that nourishes both your body and your mind?
Prevention rather than cure.
Milvia Pili
Functional Nutritional Therapist
