This year, Kirsty and I have taken on a remarkable challenge of walking the Camino de Santiago, also known as the Camino Francés. An 800km pilgrimage across the French Pyrenees and northern Spain. We’re doing this not only for the personal growth but also to raise funds for two incredible Dorset-based charities: MYTIME Young Carers and Dorset Wildlife Trust. Discover the Wonders of Walking below.
Donate Here!
Click here to see our Just Giving page for MYTIME Young Carers
Click here to see our Just Giving page for the Dorset Wildlife Trust
Why Walking?
In preparing for this journey, I’ve already walked around 2.8 million steps, covering approximately 1,300 miles. That’s a lot of time to think, and one recurring theme that keeps coming up is the transformative power of walking. In a world that often celebrates the grand and the spectacular, we sometimes overlook the quiet, everyday rituals that shape us. Walking may seem simple, but its benefits are profound. Through this blog I’ll be sharing reflections on what I call the Wonders of Walking, along with updates from our Camino experience.
The Wonders of Walking
1. Walking Boosts Wellbeing
We all know exercise is good for us, but walking in particular has some powerful benefits. Just 10 to 20 minutes a day can:
- Lower blood pressure
- Improve mood
- Help manage symptoms of mild to moderate depression
It’s a free, accessible way to support both physical and mental health.
2. Walking Strengthens Relationships
Ever struggled to have a meaningful conversation with someone? Walking side by side often creates the perfect environment for open dialogue. The rhythm, the scenery, the shared pace – it all helps people relax and connect.
For many, daily walks revolve around their dogs. But who’s really walking who? Our furry companions often lead us into the world, rain or shine, nudging us towards connection with nature, with others, and with ourselves.
3. Walking Sparks the Unexpected
In a world of algorithms and routines, walking invites the unpredictable. Whether it’s a surprising encounter, a new path, or a moment of beauty, walking opens us up to unscripted experiences that enrich our lives.
4. Walking Enhances Work and Ethics
We spend much of our lives working, so why not walk our way to better work? At Ouch, we’ve embraced initiatives like the Midday Mile and executive safety walks. Walking can improve:
- Focus and productivity
- Ethical decision-making
- Team collaboration
It’s a simple tool with powerful workplace potential. Click here to read more about the Midday Mile.
5. Walking Fuels Thinking and Creativity
Some of the world’s greatest minds – Darwin, Wordsworth, Nietzsche, Turner – were avid walkers. It’s no coincidence. Walking stimulates the brain, helping us:
- Solve problems
- Generate ideas
- Reflect deeply
Many of us have had our best ideas while out on a stroll. It’s a proven path to creativity.
6. Walking Connects Us to Nature
For me, walking has to happen outside. Treadmills have their place, but the real magic lies in the natural world. As Henry David Thoreau wrote in his essay Walking, humans are inherently wild beings. Time spent outdoors reconnects us with who we are and where we belong.
A Balanced View
Of course, no discussion is complete without acknowledging the challenges. Walking isn’t always easy or accessible for everyone. I’ll be exploring some of these perspectives too, aiming for a balanced and inclusive conversation.
Join the Journey
So, that’s my list of the Wonders of Walking. Whether you agree, disagree, or have your own insights to share, I’d love to hear from you. For more information about our Camino Adventure, or to donate, visit our just giving pages below.
Click here to see our Just Giving page for MYTIME Young Carers
Click here to see our Just Giving page for the Dorset Wildlife Trust
Buen Camino
Simon & Kirsty