They say that it takes 4-6 weeks to imbed a new habit. Since my accident sabbatical I had developed the habit of NOT walking – because for awhile I couldn’t. If that wasn’t bad enough, It was also months since I was able to go to pilates, which I love and am convinced is keeping me upright. Meaning, my fear is, if I ever let it go, I’ll be pushing that walker in no time. I missed both activities, badly.
As time passed and, as it does, healed, the day came when I was ready. However, even when I was willing and able to go back to pilates my teacher was not ready for me. She had a houseful of refugees living in her house, including in her pilates studio – relatives who had to evacuate from the destruction of the huge Fort McMurray fires (and I thought I had problems!).
My return to pilates was delayed, but I was ready to do something so I figured walking needs no equipment or teachers and no barriers except what’s between the ears. So I decided to pick up the pieces, put my shoes on and get going.
My first outing. my first baby steps, was to the beach where the path is solid and level. Trying not to think about past days when I would walk forever, I just concentrated on this one stretch of beach. It felt good to be moving again – even if I had to break and sit on a bench for awhile mid-way. Since then, I’ve been out every day for several weeks now, building strength – beach walks, forest walks, town walks, hood walks. I may return sore, but so what, I’m sore anyway. I’ve gone back to re-visit trails around town I haven’t been to in a long time. Sometimes I go further afield and have found some great discoveries. Like rivers and waterfalls.
I don’t know why but It’s taken me 4 years and 11 months to discover one of the greatest walks around here. A mere 15 minutes up the highway on the way to Port Alberni is the Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. I knew it was there, but I don’t know how I missed it (if that makes any sense). Well maintained pathways follow the river through the forest on both sides up along the gorge containing the falls making for an easy hike alongside the rushing water. It’s my new favorite place and I’ve been back a couple of times in the past week.
How many other terrific walking places are so close by that are yet to be discovered? I intend to find out.
These daily walks serve more, much more, than just the physical health. They are a time for absorbing the natural world, working out creative ideas, thinking of solutions, recovering from “Mom I have bad news” days, regaining calm – I can understand the expression ‘walking meditation’. I always return feeling fantastic and appreciating my good fortune. A worthy habit to resurrect.
“Solvitur ambulando,” St. Augustine is said to have remarked. “It is solved by walking.”
Back on my feet, literally, just in time. We’re very soon off on the first of many short (2-3 nights) road trips planned for this summer around the island. I’m totally stoked to go off and see new things. Expanding the perimeter.
In other news…The summer issue of Canadian Geographic, a special climate change edition on newstands now, has a feature article about the scientific research station the government is building in the far north at Cambridge Bay. This is where #2 Son Mike spends so much time as a project manager (he’s up there now for another 6-week stint). Lots of pictures, good story about why they’re building it, and even a quote from the lad himself. That’s my boy!
Put the prosecco on ice. Monday is a very special day. Not only is it Summer Solstice but it is solstice with a huge bonus. A full moon. I’d say this is an excellent excuse for a celebration, which I have every intention of doing. Enjoy.
