Looking at beauty in the world
is the first step in purifying the mind.
Amit Ray
There are days when I go for a walk that I start out in a not so good mood. I start the walk with a whine about having to walk because I need the exercise, then go on to list all the things I’d rather be doing and all the things that need to be done that I don’t want to do. I complain about the weather, it’s too hot or too cold, too bright and sunny or too dark and cloudy, too windy or there is no wind. In general, just complaining and centered solely on myself.
Before long, I notice the trees or some flowers, birds chattering back and forth to each other, or a hawk soaring across the sky. I see a cat wandering or someone walking a dog, someone out for a run or walking with a baby in a stroller, or an elderly person who seems frail but still out and about enjoying a stroll. I stop and just look around at the world and I am stunned by the beauty of it all.
My mind lets go of the negativity and makes room for the positivity and possibilities that surround me. Nothing around me has changed, but within there is a cleansing that refreshes and energizes, not just my mind, but my body, too. My walk becomes something more than exercise. The heaviness in my heart is washed away and my eyes are open to the beauty of the world.
I laugh at my not so good mood and there is abundant joy!
Photo by Alex Bargain on Pexels.com
Patricia's Place 
It’s amazing what a walk can do for one’s mood. Anytime I get in a worrisome mood, I sit outside on the balcony and let nature take me into its world.
I do the same. When the weather cooperates, I like to take a nap out there.😸
I so understand the influence of Mother Nature who sure has been showing off with her warm, gentle climes we so deserve. My early run in the Park is so second nature (no pun intended) to me I forget how it shapes my morning.
I just loved this, how it starts right before sunrise and bursts into the light of your day. Your prose Patricia gets better and better. 🙂
Mother Nature does care for us. Sadly, we aren’t very good at caring for her.
Just got a sad chill at the truth in this. sigh
You’re so right Patricia, walking is such a mood elevator.
Yes, it is. Now that it is getting hot, I may not take long walks. But I am trying to get up early so I can take a walk.
Early morning walks are the best.
Walking is an exercise that actually can reduce brain strain, and if you pray while you walk the results are lasting up towards 20+ minutes after you stop.
Hey, Gralan, nice to see you. I do think walking reduces “brain strain.”
I agree, our mood changes after our morning walks too, especially if we see some kitties out n’ about.
I always feel better after a walk, physically and mentally. Today, I saw three cats wandering around and that is unusual. I don’t think they were strays, they looked well-fed and clean.