There is something so wonderful about going for a long walk on a lovely day and getting out into nature. Leisurely walks are also actually one of my favorite ways to move my body and get a little exercise without it feeling like a workout. And personally, I like to get as many leisurely walks in as I can in all four seasons. Including Winter, as leisurely walks actually do help to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder. Going for a walk is such a wonderful way to get some natural daylight and escape the daily grind for a moment. I can’t express enough how much I enjoy going for a little stroll around the neighborhood at my leisure. At least, when the weather permits.
But I also know that, sometimes, our daily leisurely stroll can begin to feel almost a little too routine. Or, perhaps, we just want a little bit more out of our leisurely walks. Or we just want to change things up and enhance our typical walking routine. Not because there’s anything wrong with our usual walking routes or our walking habits. But because we know that we could be allowing ourselves to explore a little more as we stroll through familiar streets and pathways. Or we just want a little more from our walks. After all, it’s human to want to spruce things up in our daily routines. Or to make everyday moments more special through romanticizing the ordinary.
And honestly? Leisurely walks are so easy to elevate and romanticize. Regardless of whether you live in an urban area, suburb, small town, or even a more rural area. Oftentimes, all it even takes to switch up your usual walk is a little bit of extra planning and intention.
Switch Up What You Listen To On Your Leisurely Walks
Music is wonderful to listen to, and don’t get me wrong, it can certainly help to power a lovely leisurely walk. However, I must say, I often don’t put that much thought into selecting the same playlists I always listen to on my walks. Which are also the same playlists I often listen to as I go about my day at home. Certainly, there is nothing wrong with having a go-to playlist for your walks and going with the flow of it. But I will say, while entertaining, listening to the same songs over and over can get repetitive. And I’m perfectly honest with myself, all I’m getting from the music is vibes. I’m not really nourishing my mind with anything new, or getting anything more than entertainment value.
Heck, if I’m honest, I’m sometimes barely even noticing my playlist, as it’s just become part of my walking routine. And I know that I could be simultaneously doing more for my mind as I get some fresh air and move my body. Perhaps even entertaining myself even more than I would be by switching up what I choose to listen to on my leisurely walks. After all, I love the mental nourishment that I can get from listening to a podcast that gets me thinking. And listening to an audiobook is a great way to enjoy more books in those moments when you can’t physically read them. I also must say, guided meditations can also be quite lovely to listen to on your walks.
Whether you’re looking to learn something new, unwind, or simply be entertained, I highly recommend choosing something other than music to walk to. It’s more than worth trying for at least one of your leisurely walks. Honestly, you just might start to prefer it.
Try Taking A Walk Without Headphones — Listen To Nature
Sometimes the best thing to listen to on your leisurely walks is actually nothing at all. Or at least, nothing from your headphones or a digital device. Especially as I feel that we could all use a digital detox from time to time anyway. And a nature walk is the perfect time to disconnect from the digital world entirely, and tune in more to the world around us. And honestly, the ambient noise of your environment can actually be so much more lovely and grounding than you expect. You may even be surprised by just how many little sounds there are in your neighborhood. It’s honestly quite lovely to acknowledge all of them, even the ones that aren’t necessarily considered to be beautiful.
Whether it be the birds singing, the breeze blowing through the trees, children laughing, dogs barking, or distant conversations, it’s so lovely to be reminded just how much beauty and life there is around us. There’s even something somewhat grounding about traffic noise and construction sounds. After all, it all just reminds us that even our own neighborhoods are so complex. And that this world is quite a complex place, in the best ways possible. I actually find that tuning in to these sounds can even help me to get out of my own head sometimes. I also must say, I find silence with just environmental ambient noise to be the best type of boredom.
Of course, if you live in an urban or noisier area, and you’re overwhelmed by the ambient noise of your neighborhood, you can always opt for some simple Loops earplugs. Just to dampen the sounds a bit, while still making a point to cut back on distractions and artificial noise. After all, sometimes we just need a moment to disconnect.
Think Out Loud Into A Voice Note On Your Walk
As a person with a strong inner monologue that’s almost always chatting away, I often feel as though I might as well get those thoughts out. And my leisurely walks are often one of those times my mind decides to have a full-on internal podcast. To give a little fun fact, I actually do a lot of my content brainstorming in my head on my walks. While also sometimes planning out my day, gameplay ideas for The Sims, processing my general thoughts, or whatever else my brain finds relevant. Sometimes, I also know that I want to remember some of my thoughts on my leisurely walks for later.
But, for obvious reasons, I can’t exactly write in my journal while I’m walking. And typing away in my notes app isn’t exactly a safe solution either. We certainly all want to be keeping an eye out for those potholes, uneven bits of sidewalk, street crossings, and whatever else may be beneath our feet. And the perfect solution to that is quite honestly to just record a voice memo and think out loud. Seriously, open up your voice memos app, and just let your thoughts come out. Have a solo unscripted podcast with yourself as you stroll down the sidewalk. You don’t have to publish it, my lovely. So it can be as raw and seemingly random as your genuine thoughts in the moment.
I wouldn’t even worry about what other people may think if they see you “talking to yourself”. Especially as they’ll likely just assume you’re on the phone or using voice-to-text. Or they’ll recognize that maybe they should also be thinking out loud on their walks. But honestly, it’s such a great way to let your thoughts flow in a way you can access them again later.
Try 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding As You Walk
I personally love to use the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding method as a meditative and grounding method in stressful or chaotic moments in my life. I often used the 5-4-3-2-1 method to ground myself at my previous job in the corporate world. It also comes in handy around the holidays and in other stressful moments. But, you don’t just have to use this beautiful grounding method for recentering yourself in a chaotic moment. Nor do you have to be sitting still to practice this lovely grounding method. As a matter of fact, it can be quite grounding to practice the 5-4-3-2-1 method on your leisurely walks. And it invites you to truly engage with the whole experience as you enjoy your leisurely walk.
Honestly, we all sometimes need to just take a moment to be more present. Both in our bodies and in the world around us. I also find that this method truly requires quite a bit of focus and intention as you move further into the countdown. It’s quite engaging for our lovely brains, which can certainly sometimes use some recentering. And honestly, leisurely walks in themselves are quite grounding. So why not elevate them by practicing such an effective grounding technique while you walk?
You can even get a little creative with how you choose to implement the 5-4-3-2-1 method into your walks. You can go through the full countdown at every turn on your route. Or you can do each step one by one as you come to a new crossing. Or you can just casually do it at any moment. Perhaps when you first step out onto the sidewalk, or at a scenic park along the way. There’s honestly no right or wrong here. This is all about intention, mindfulness, and grounding.
What Is The 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Method?
Simply put, the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding method is a mindfulness exercise that utilizes all five of your senses to ground in the world around you. And honestly, nature is such a lovely place to practice this calming meditative exercise. Going for a leisurely walk engages all of your senses to some degree, especially when you take a moment to truly tune in to them. I also must say, it’s quite simple, but also challenging enough in some aspects to force you to recenter your attention on the present moment.
- 5 things that you can see, whether close to you or way off in the distance.
- 4 things you can feel, be it your clothing or items you intentionally touch. Let this be a reason to literally touch grass or flowers.
- 3 things you can hear, whether nearby or in the distance. Soft sounds count.
- 2 things that you can smell, even just subtly. Your sunscreen or fragrance also count.
- 1 thing you can taste, even if it’s just how the air seems to taste.
Honestly, you just might be surprised by the wonderful things that you notice when you tune in to the world around you on your leisurely walks.
Switch Up Your Walking Routes and Explore
There is something wonderful about having a familiar route that you can almost navigate with your eyes closed on your leisurely walks. Honestly, I love having that route that I don’t need to think about when I need to just get out of the house for a bit. However, I will say that seeing the same scenery on every single walk can eventually get a little stale. Certainly, the scenery is still beautiful and comforting. But passing the same houses, parks, and trees every day can get slightly boring and routine. And as someone who goes for walks to get a change of scenery from my bedroom, sometimes I don’t want to see the same exact things every time I head out.
Which is why, sometimes, I like to change up my usual walking routes and go down different streets that I typically don’t. Just to switch things up a little bit, and see different parts of the neighborhood. Because honestly, it’s crazy how many streets we often never go down in our neighborhoods, and there’s so much beauty to be found in the simplest of places. Honestly, it can be a fun way to explore your neighborhood without going too far out of your way.
You can always use Google Maps to plan out your route, so you can get a better sense of where you’re going and what roads lead to where. Or what wonderful little surprises just might be on your planned route, such as parks and even little shops or cafés. I will also say to listen to your intuition as to what neighborhoods feel safe versus a little sus. This isn’t about forcing yourself to walk streets and pathways where you feel uncomfortable. But rather, just switching up your route and seeing different things.
Relax At A Park Or In A Lovely Scenic Area
Although I’m quite an indoorsy girly, I’m not going to deny the beauty of nature. Nature is so beautiful in all four seasons, even Winter, and I know for a fact that I could be appreciating it a bit more when the weather permits. I also feel that I don’t always get the fullest appreciation of nature from my back patio, when I’m still just steps away from the house. Which is why I often do like to stop and sit in a park for a little while I’m on my leisurely walks. Even if it’s more of a city or neighborhood park than a dedicated nature or scenic park. Sometimes it’s lovely to just relax outdoors and enjoy the beauty of your neighborhood slightly beyond your own patio.
And honestly, there are so many ways that you can make a simple walk to the park special and romanticize it a bit. Perhaps, you could even plan your leisurely walks around stopping at the park for a bit. I honestly love to pack a little bit of lunch to enjoy at the park from time to time. Or bring a book with me to read on a park bench. Or sometimes even just sit or walk around the park and enjoy my surroundings. Especially on a lovely day. After all, I do live in the Midwest, and I know that lovely weather is such a treat.
Sunny, warm days often feel like something that I need to enjoy while they’re in season. Even if it’s just by packing up an indoor activity to enjoy outdoors away from the house. Or by just sitting there and enjoying the scenery while nature and people watching.
Stop By Local Shops and Cafés On Your Leisurely Walks
You don’t have to live in an urban area to find some cute little shops and cafés that are within walking distance. As a matter of fact, suburban areas and even small town squares can be an absolute gold mine for cafés and cute little shops that you can easily walk to. Even if you may need to walk a mile or two to get to them. I must admit that I do love leisurely walks that cover a considerable distance. But honestly, there are likely so many wonderful little places to get something to eat or to pick up something unique that you’ve never even noticed before. Regardless of whether you live in a major city, bustling suburb, or a small town.
There’s something so lovely about stopping by a local café to grab a bite to eat at a midpoint on your walk. Then stopping by a local shop to treat yourself to some flowers, a new dress, a book, or something fun for your space. Or picking up some local produce from a farmer’s market. I also can’t stress enough checking out the smaller businesses on your route, over choosing a major franchise. Especially as these are the places where you’ll find the most unique pieces and some of the best fresh treats. While supporting a small business owner in your local community. You’d even be surprised by just how great of a deal you can get from a local small business.
Honestly, I even prefer walking to these places over taking the car to get to them. There’s something so lovely about walking around with flowers and a book from your own town square. As you sip a local latte from that new coffee shop on the square.
Take Some Lovely Nature and Neighborhood Photos
Nature is truly beautiful and objectively highly photogenic. Every season has its highly photogenic scenery if you know where to look. It doesn’t necessarily have to be the peak of Autumn or Spring to get some lovely pictures. I also must say, older and historical buildings can make for such lovely local photography. Sometimes you don’t even realize just how beautiful your neighborhood is until you set the intention to take some photos in your neighborhood. And when you set out on your leisurely walks with the intention to take some nature and neighborhood photography, it truly gives you a new appreciation for your surroundings. While also encouraging you to be creative.
I will say, I do like to challenge myself to use a dedicated digital or DSLR camera to take my nature photos instead of my phone. Especially when I’m actively looking to disconnect from the digital world. I also love the challenge of using a classic film or a lightweight Polaroid camera, where I can’t edit the photo or see it until it develops or prints. However, you do not need to buy a separate camera to take some lovely nature and neighborhood photos. Your phone’s camera is wonderful to use as well, especially if you’re looking to post them or make a few quick edits to enhance them. Heck, nature and neighborhood walks are a wonderful way to put your phone’s camera to the test.
Don’t worry too much about taking the perfect nature or building photos either. Have some fun with it, and photograph what you find interesting or beautiful. While being mindful of other people’s privacy, of course, if you’re in a busy area or taking photos of beautiful homes.
Acknowledge Your Neighbors and Passersby
While I’m certainly an introvert and I enjoy my leisurely solo walks, I also do find that acknowledging other people on my walks does add a bit of joy to my day. Even the most introverted of us are social creatures to an extent, whether we want to admit it or not. And honestly, I like seeing other people spend some time out in nature and getting some fresh air as well. I also believe that a little bit of kindness goes a long way in a world that could objectively use some more positivity. It also does feel quite lovely to be acknowledged, even if you’re not seeking conversation. Sometimes, even just a smile, a wave, or even a friendly nod can truly make your day. So why not spread that bit of positivity to others?
You don’t have to strike up a lengthy conversation with anyone. You can always simply say hello to your neighbors and wish them a lovely day, without it needing to be a full conversation. Although it can also be lovely to talk to someone who isn’t in your usual direct circle for a bit. But if you’re not up for conversation, sometimes even just a smile or wave is enough to show others that you see and acknowledge them. Heck, even just a nod can show that you acknowledge another person as you’re passing each other by.
With that said, I will say that if someone appears to be looking down or away from you, or their body language signals they want to be left alone, you should always give them as much space as possible. Sometimes the kindest acknowledgement is respecting someone’s boundaries. But if someone appears to be open or neutral, that simple hello or wave just might make their day.
When you take a moment to slow down, or even to stop and smell the flowers, you remember just how beautiful life really is.
A Few Things To Consider To Keep Your Leisurely Walks Safe And Joyful
As you head out for a leisurely walk, it is important to be a little mindful about staying safe as you venture out. Because honestly, staying safe and healthy is an essential part of keeping your walks fun and delightful. I know for a fact that I get the most out of my walks when I’m being mindful of my safety and maintaining healthy walking habits. While I’m not the type of person who feels that you always need to be on super-high alert, I do feel that mindfulness is always important. As well as keeping yourself healthy on a walk. Especially considering many of us take leisurely walks as a means to move our bodies and maintain our wellness in a way that feels good.
After all, there’s nothing fun about dealing with a sunburn post-walk. Or getting caught in a thunderstorm when you’re a mile from shelter. Or finding yourself on the pavement because of a rogue pothole or uneven bit of sidewalk.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
I highly recommend always carrying a water bottle with you when you head out for a leisurely walk. Especially for longer walks and warmer days. That way, you have something to sip on while you’re out. You can always keep your water bottle in a little shoulder bag carrier designed for it, if you don’t want to hold it the whole time. And if you wish, you can add an electrolyte packet to it to add a bit of flavor and additional electrolyte replacement. Especially if it’s relatively hot and you might be sweating quite a bit.
Wear Sunscreen
Listen, I know sometimes you don’t want to take a few extra minutes to put on sunscreen when you’re eager to head out for a leisurely walk. I’m guilty of skipping the SPF myself sometimes, especially for quicker walks. But it’s always worth it to avoid the discomfort of a sunburn afterward. And depending on the UV index, sometimes all it takes is 10 minutes to get a sunburn. Which is often just a quick walk around the block. Even if it’s cloudy and chilly, don’t skip the SPF. I’ve totally gotten sunburns on a cool, cloudy day in April.
Check The Weather Before Heading Out
Living in the Midwest, I know that the sky isn’t always the most reliable indicator of what the weather is going to look like over the next hour. Sometimes, it can be perfectly sunny, then thunderstorming within half an hour. Conversely, it can also be cloudy with no rain in the forecast. Which is why I always recommend checking the weather before heading out for a walk. I personally like to look at the hourly forecast for the next 3 hours before I head out, even if that seems a bit extra and extreme. I like to give myself more than enough time to adjust in case a storm comes sooner than expected, if there’s any rain expected for the day.
That said, don’t forget to also check for extreme heat or cold, and any other weather advisories you may need to be aware of. It’s also worth checking the current air quality before you head out, especially if you have any respiratory concerns. Also, don’t forget about things like the UV index and heat index. And please, postpone your walk if there are any severe weather watches issued, even if they aren’t warnings. And don’t ignore extreme heat and cold warnings ever.
Bring Your Phone Or Cellular Smartwatch
Even if you’re looking to have a full digital detox on your leisurely walks, it’s still wise to carry your phone with you. Or wear a cellular smartwatch if you have one. You can absolutely have it on “do not disturb” and not touch it once. Though I do recommend having weather notifications enabled, just in case. While the likelihood you’ll actually need it is very low, you do want to have it in case of an emergency. You can also use it to optionally share your location with a trusted friend or loved one if you’re on a solo walk. That way, you have someone looking out for you for peace of mind.
Maintain Situational Awareness
It can be easy to go into autopilot when you’re on a leisurely walk in a familiar area. Especially when you generally feel safe in your surroundings. But please, do be mindful of what is going on around you on your leisurely walks, and stay aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your surroundings, and don’t try to text or scroll and walk. You don’t want to miss that pothole and step right in it or trip over the sidewalk. Nor do you want to bump right into your neighbor. Or have someone angrily honking at you because you walked right into traffic without looking. (Been there — no judgment!) It’s also wise to keep an eye on the sky in case weather conditions begin to shift.
Remember to also keep the volume on your music, podcasts, audiobooks, or meditations relatively low. That way you can hear what’s going on around you. Be it traffic, other people, or even distant thunder. Sight and sound are your best friends for staying safe on your leisurely walks and giving yourself time to react if needed. Whether it be turning around if the sky turns dark, avoiding potholes, or moving over for passing cars. Or even just to avoid being the person blocking the walkway if someone wants to get past you.
Conclusion
Leisurely walks are such a lovely way to get out into nature, unplug from the digital world, and take a moment for yourself. Quite honestly, walking is one of my favorite ways to move my body as it’s super low-impact and it doesn’t really feel like a workout. Especially when I stop tracking distance, pacing speed, and step count. Leisurely walks are honestly meant to be slow and intentional, rather than feeling like a competition with yourself. So let’s shift the focus of our walks onto mindfulness and allow them to enrich our lives. Let’s find little ways to romanticize them and make them feel special rather than feeling like a chore.
Let’s allow our walks around our neighborhoods to reconnect us with nature, or even with ourselves. Or perhaps even with some of our neighbors. While taking a moment to slow down and do something kind for ourselves. While maybe even going on a mini adventure. And of course, let’s also stay mindful of our surroundings to make our walks truly leisurely and enjoyable.
What do you like to do on your leisurely neighborhood walks to elevate them and make them more enjoyable? How do you like to romanticize your time out in nature? Do you have a favorite season or time of day to walk in? I’d love to hear from you!
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