I am someone who cannot sit still and needs to leave the house everyday. I need to breath in fresh air and feel the sun and wind on my face. I love to explore, to be outside and amongst nature, to find a quiet place to escape and enjoy.
A walk around the village
This gravitation towards the natural world comes from my childhood. I spent my youth constantly in the woods and fields surrounding my village, playing at my grandparents farm, camping and swimming in rivers. There was never a day where I wasn’t covered in mud or leaves. And so now, every time that I feel stressed, worried, angry, sad, I find that the best way to reflect on my emotions is to walk.
I spoke to my sister, probably the person who understands most my love for reflective wanders and who shares a similar passion for the activity due to our shared upbringing. Lydia told me that her favourite kind of walk consists of being “in the woods and hearing bird songs” and feeling like she “is lost”.
Isabel Bradshaw interviews Lydia Bradshaw about the importance of growing up surrounded by nature and going for long walks
Lydia told me that after going for a walk she “feels a lot happier” and “less stressed and more peaceful” and it is nice to spend time away from her phone. According to an article by Dr Sarah Mitchell published in September 2025, “walking, like other forms of aerobic exercise, stimulates the release of endorphins. These are natural chemicals in the brain that act as mood elevators and pain relievers. This is often referred to as the “walker’s high,” a feeling of euphoria and well-being that can follow a brisk walk.”.
Mitchell goes on to discuss how “exercise has been shown to increase the production of BDNF, a protein that supports the health of existing neurons and encourages the growth of new ones. Higher levels of BDNF are associated with improved cognitive function, reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases, and a lower incidence of depression.”.
My sister Lydia and I agree whole heartedly. Walking is not only a good way to get out of the house, to socialise, to feel more awake, but it is also a good way to stay active and mentally positive. We go on walks as often as possible, and I am very grateful that our parents showed us the importance of staying grounded and present by getting outdoors.
Nature is healing, and walking is a proven way to relieve tension and overthinking. If you ever feel like you need to blow off some steam, or just appreciate the beautiful world around you, a wander is always the best solution.
