A walk can clear our minds, sooth our souls

"But I say, walk and live (habitually) in the Holy Spirit."

- Galatians 5:16 (AMP)

With social distancing restrictions and limited places to go, I've noticed more people are getting outdoors or a walk.

I have embraced walking since my childhood years. My mother didn't drive and my father worked long hours, so if I wanted to go anywhere it was up to my two feet to get me there. It became a lifelong habit I've learned to enjoy in many ways.

I've never seen so many walkers in my neighborhood. That tells me many of you are called out of seclusion by the warmth of spring.

I remember when my first child was born, he was only a few weeks old when I bundled him up, pulled out the buggy and we went for a short walk.

Even when I'm not walking, I enjoy looking out the window at my neighbors enjoying their strolls. This was one of my favorite activities to pass the time while I was a shut-in.

I noticed some people walk fast, swinging their arms front and back with a rhythmic motion as they keep a steady pace. For them, a walk may be more than a leisurely stroll, as they work up a pace to increase their heart rate.

Others display a relaxed, casual attitude and stroll along as they take in blossoming flowers and blooming trees.

Some have special attire such as sweatsuits, headphones or head bands. Regardless of their appearance or the cadence of their stride, they have a common bond - to escape four walls.

With my background as a nurse, I am well aware of the many benefits a walk can produce. Whether a stroll in the park, a leisurely walk while pushing a baby carriage, or taking Rover down the street, any of these can benefit your body, soul and spirit.

Most of us know walking stretches our muscles and gets our heart pumping. It doesn't even have to be a fast or long walk to produce results. Any and all steps make a difference.

As we take to the sidewalks, streets and trails, we can free our minds of worries and fears and observe the beauty of nature as we sooth our senses. This is beneficial to our mental and emotional health.

Taking in the sights and sounds of spring, the colorful flowers and the singing birds can be a spiritual experience as we connect with God's creative ability and His love for us. As we observe the beauty of nature, we can be mindful of the time and energy others invested while we gaze at the vibrant colors and manicured lawns.

We can make our walks a prayerful experience by praying for the welfare of our communities or the specific neighborhood in which we walk. Doing so can take our worries off us and bless those around us. And in our prayer we can express gratitude for the many ways God made our walk a pleasurable treat.

• Annettee Budzban is a Christian author, speaker, life coach and nurse. She can be contacted by email at Annetteebudzban@aol.com or (847) 543-8413.