On Walking

A long walk is a time for deep thinking. A time to notice the intimate details of your surroundings: wildflowers, drainpipes, alligators. A time to work through the day’s problems.

If you walk for long enough, however, you may start to think up new problems.

Maybe the trick to walking is not to look too much inward? The outside world has so much to offer: new sights, sounds, and sensations can be found on every block.

If you ever forget how to walk, I recommend the book HOW TO WALK by Thich Nhat Hanh. Tip: if you bump into telephone poles while staring down at your phone, you’re doing it wrong. I speak from experience, unfortunately.

Walking outdoors brings you closer to nature. You feel the grass between your toes. You notice mushrooms, fallen leaves, and interesting bugs. Occasionally, you may step on a stinging insect.

Walking in the city presents unique challenges. The noise and smells are often overwhelming. When you wear shoes, you will discover pieces of gum. And you’re bound to encounter other people. For an introvert, these unplanned interactions can be scary. But encountering unusual people can also be invigorating.

Maybe there’s some wisdom in the old cliché of walking a mile in someone else’s shoes. Even better if they are wearing rollerblades. Or moon boots.

“Solvitur ambulando” is Latin for "it is solved by walking." Sure, walking won’t solve all of your problems. But walking while pondering a single problem is more productive than pounding your head against the desk. A walk may be enough of a diversion to let go of a problem long enough for your unconscious mind to unravel it.

How do you know when it’s time to stop walking? When you reach a moment of insight—or when you finally make it to the beach.

How to Walk, The Path to Empathy, and The Weight appear in my most recent book of comics, THE ART OF LIVING: REFLECTIONS ON MINDFULNESS AND THE OVEREXAMINED LIFE. Find it online worldwide or at your favorite local bookstore.