In September 2023, I initiated a daily evening walk with my dog, accompanied by Sufjan Stevens’ latest album, Javelin. This routine served as a brief escape, allowing me to release daily frustrations while being immersed in Sufjan’s emotional masterpiece through my headphones. Gradually, this habit evolved into a crucial part of my day, instilling a sense of pride in maintaining consistency. Despite colder weather and a few setbacks due to illness or storms, I persevered. This positive routine not only contributed to physical well-being but also influenced healthier eating habits and improved organization.
However, after the loss of one of our dogs after Christmas, I struggled to maintain this simple act. This grief disrupted my established routines, leading to a downward spiral in various aspects of my life. Despite numerous attempts to “get my life together,” I often found myself navigating through ups and downs akin to a roller coaster. It was during this challenging period that I discovered Libby DeLana’s book, “Do Walk,” at a local bookstore. A quick skim revealed shared ideals and principles, aligning with the positive habits I had cultivated during my daily walks.
Reading a chapter every few days, DeLana’s words became a source of motivation, urging me not to succumb to despair. Despite grieving the loss of my dog, I was determined not to let it hinder my progress. The final chapter, aptly titled “Keep Going,” emphasized that “walking is building resilience, loving your body, committing to your wellbeing, and taking action.” This reminder was precisely what I needed, prompting me to resume my daily walks.
“Do Walk” seamlessly connects with my personal principles, emphasizing the importance of being in nature and paying attention to my senses. As Charles Duhigg details in “The Power of Habit,” a Keystone Habit, such as daily walking, directly influences various aspects of thinking, acting, and feeling. They can also lead to a cascade of other positive habits. Grateful for Libby’s simple yet insightful book, it served as a timely reminder of the profound impact a single action, like daily walking, can have on our overall well-being.
A quote that Libby references in the book, and I will share, “I will arise and go now. (William Butler Yeats).” I will soon head out for my walk and am excited to continue this daily ritual!
