I’m on week 6 of social distancing at home. A reprieve from all the indoor time has been a daily walk outdoors. Never have I been so thankful to get out in the fresh air and be somewhere other than inside my house! The weather is turning nicer in Michigan and I feel like I am experiencing spring in a whole new way. Because I spend a lot of time looking out my windows a home, I am feeling closer to nature.
The “Wise Walker” walking badge will encourage us all to get a bit closer to nature. Don’t just walk outside, but walk mindfully and walk often! Join us over the next two weeks as we learn the science and benefits of walking along with a little history and a lot of fun facts. We will share our experience taking a class on Good Form Walking to make sure we are caring for our bodies while we walk, joining a walking challenge to walk 20 minutes a day for a year, and embarking on a few mindful and contemplative walks to commune with nature.
If you are interested in earning the Wise Walker Badge yourself, follow along and complete the steps with us. You can find our free Wise Walker Badge Guide here.
Steps to Earn the Wise Walker Badge
Step 1: Explore the mental and physical benefits of walking. Look into the science and history of taking a stroll. How do walkable communities impact the people that live there? Watch a Youtube video about the importance of walking as a lifelong habit. Check out a book on meditative walking, or listen to a podcast on the benefits of walking everyday.
Step 2: Learn from others. Join a local walking group. Investigate marked walking trails in your area. Enroll in a class on good form walking. Visit your local fitness store and find a good pair of walking shoes. Bring a list of questions you have about walking and proper footwear. Ask about the difference between walking and running shoes.
Step 3: Create and take action. Take a walking challenge and commit to walking every day for a week, a month, or a year. Take meditative walks. Explore your park, your neighborhood, your town, and the countryside near you. Form a walking group to keep yourself and others motivated. Share with others what you have learned about wise walking!
Head over to our Instagram or Facebook to read some walking trivia and tips and be sure to follow our blog posts for more in depth reporting on our experience earning the Wise Walker Badge.
Once you’ve completed the Wise Walker Badge, be sure to tell us about it on Instagram with the hashtag #badgesforall and send us a quick message to share your experience. If you include your address, we’ll send you a little something for completing the badge!
Badges for All 