Summary

The article discusses the rise of morning walks as a popular activity during the COVID-19 pandemic, detailing personal experiences and the positive impact on mental and physical health.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns significantly altered daily routines, with many people turning to morning walks as a new habit to maintain physical and mental well-being. Residents of a condominium complex, initially restricted by rules and schedules, gradually embraced the opportunity to walk within the complex. The author, a retired school employee, reflects on the shift from reluctance to enjoy the comfort of bed to the newfound joy of early morning walks. The article highlights the benefits of walking, such as appreciating nature, socializing within the community, and maintaining fitness, and emphasizes the author's personal transformation through this routine. As restrictions eased, the community's walking culture flourished, with diverse groups of people and even pets participating, and the author intends to continue the practice, acknowledging its positive effects on health and social life.

Opinions

The author initially lacked the inclination for morning walks but found them invigorating post-retirement, especially during the pandemic.
The pandemic provided a unique opportunity for people to form new habits, like walking, which had a positive impact on their lives.
The strict walking schedules implemented in the condominium complex were appreciated for ensuring fairness and safety among residents.
The author notes the idyllic weather and the beauty of nature, enhanced by reduced pollution, as motivating factors for continuing the morning walks.
The article conveys a sense of community and friendship developed through the shared experience of walking.
The author values the opportunity for reflection and planning that the morning walks provide.
There is an acknowledgment of the different preferences and styles of walking among individuals, from slow, thoughtful strolls to brisk, fitness-focused walks.
The author expresses a commitment to maintaining the morning walk routine even as the city unlocks and life returns to normal.

Walking The New Fad

“A morning walk sets us out on the right foot for the day.”

With the onslaught of COVID 19, and subsequent lockdown, movement of people became prohibited.

Social life came to a complete standstill. Working from home was the new narrative. For some of us, it was also time to form new habits — like a morning stroll.

Living in a condominium we were fortunate, as after the initial few days we were permitted to walk within our complex.

Nonetheless, there were rules and regulations to be followed. Limited people, were allowed during a particular time slot. It was mandatory to wear masks, keep a two-metre distance and walk in the same direction. To ensure fairness, residents of some towers in the condominium were allowed to walk in the morning, others in the evening. At the end of each week, the schedule was reversed.

People clutched at this opportunity and stepped out of their homes after a fortnight of house arrest.

The weather in March was idyllic and in the initial days, people were very cautious, fearful of stopping and having conversations with each other.

Everyone was tired of being cooped up in their apartments. The young, middle-aged and old all felt the need to step out, not merely for exercise but also to appreciate nature in all its glory.

Gradually as time passed residents were allowed greater freedom and could choose their own timings.

Having worked in a school for over thirty years I never had the opportunity or inclination to take walks in the morning. Waking up early was always an issue and I did it grudgingly all my working years.

Finally, post-retirement what I enjoyed most was lazing in bed on waking up. Not even wild horses could drag me out of the comfort of my bed.

The Pandemic altered things drastically. My Pilate classes came to an abrupt end, and I yearned for some form of exercise. Staying indoors twenty-four seven was stifling and I needed to get out and feel alive once again.

So, I pushed myself and decided not to miss the opportunity of going to walk at the stipulated time. So once again I got back into the routine of getting up early and honestly it was not so bad!

Stepping out I began to notice so many things. People have different strides, some prefer jogging, others have headphones on, obviously listening to music. Some seem focussed on watching birds or observing the trees as they walk by.

I started my morning walks in March, spring was in the air and the lack of noise and air pollution had impacted my city beautifully. Skies were blue, clouds were visible and birds could be heard chirping and one just couldn’t but admire the beautiful surroundings. Flowers were in full bloom. It was heavenly and I felt blessed for being able to walk and breathe fresh air albeit through a mask!

Now with restrictions easing people are seen walking together, stopping and talking to each other from a safe distance. I have made more friends in the community and look forward to my daily walk, which enables me to fulfill my social needs.

I have also realised that starting the day with a morning walk, energises you and sets the tone for the rest of the day.

I have also started to notice and imbibe so much while walking. Whilst some people walk slowly evidently preoccupied with their thoughts, others are more aware and intent on maximizing their exercise value.

There are dog walkers, walking dogs. The dogs need their morning walk as much as we do and it’s a delight to see some of them drag their feet refusing to return to the confines of their homes.

Cyclists are now permitted to ride their cycles in nearby areas and one can see the joy on their faces, behind their masks, as they return to the condominium. Cycling enables them a total work out and increased cardiovascular fitness and hence the choice of some.

I have learnt to observe and understand the various walking group dynamics. I can now identify the talkers and the listeners. It is indeed quite apparent, that while some people are in love with their own voices, others are more benevolent and listen. It has made me mindful of the importance of letting others voice their opinion.

As our city unlocks, and normalcy returns to our lives, I do intend not giving up on my morning walks. The benefits of a morning walk and exercise regime are immense. It has made me less lethargic, provided me with an opportunity to make more friends and be motivated to walk at a brisker pace. I also get time to plan out the activities for the day and things I need to do.

I would like to sum up the importance of walking with this quote…

“ I love to walk. Walking is a spiritual journey and a reflection of living. Each of us must determine which path to take and how far to walk; we must find our own way, what is right for one may not be for another.”