WALKING MAGAZINE

No, the magazine doesn't walk! But, it's about walking. Who knew? Why didn't I know there was such a magazine. I've looked online for any related topic but never found any. In a thrift store, I found a copy of this magazine - but it was published in 2005, so I'm not sure it's even still in publication. I'll check on that and get back to you.

In this particular issue, featuring Suzanne Sommers on the cover, there is an article entitled, "Beat Stress", that is about a 25 minute stress busting walk. No problem with that. Except that the article includes far more than walking. There is the Hara Twist, Mindful Walking, Rag Doll roll, and more. Nothing that can't be accomplished by most people whether or not they're wearing comfortable walking shoes.

Accompanying the article is an inset box with these tips for stress busting:
Get a hobby - any hobby (hmmm. Does eating count?);
Walk outside on nature trails;
Journal so you can write down your feelings (always a good idea);
Keep your mind sharp by working the crossword puzzle in the newspaper everyday (well, that WAS 2005 when there were newspapers in print);
Do good to feel good (service work).

There are no secrets in these tips, but they are all good reminders that it is fairly simple to keep ourselves calm and motivated by taking care of ourselves and offering service to others. Charity (which I define as doing something beneficial anonymously with no expectation of return) has been known forever as being good for the human spirit.

While you're walking this week, think of a couple of things you can do for your neighbors, in your community, for your spouse, for the local nursing home that will put a smile on someone's face. Then, go do it! You'll feel delightful when you're done.

Here are a few simple ideas:
Take a bunch of bananas or a stack of old magazines to the nursing home;
Leave a wonderful paperback on a table at a restaurant with a note on it saying 'Free for the Reading';
Bake a loaf of bread, put it in a pretty bag, and leave it hanging on your neighbor's door;
Pick up the litter along your walk;
Leave a love note for your spouse taped to the bathroom mirror;
Find 10 things in your house you no longer use and drop them off at a thrift store or shelter.

Okay. Now, doesn't that feel better? PLEASE do me the honor of suggesting other Pay It Forward ideas here to motivate all of us.


***************************Remember my 100% GUARANTEE. Should you decide to stop walking and resume your old habits, I personally guarantee that you'll get back 100% of your former life - your pain, your lifestyle, your attitude. You can trust the information you find here. It's from a dedicated walker. Trust me and your life will get better! I promise.