Wandering

I started a walkin club!!

Walking is such a joyous activity and it's free! The nature, the wind, the sounds, the beauty. Being in the moment, present, and still- is something I currently strive for. Walking offers numerous benefits. However, nothing matches the feeling and sense of community, that has contributed to this club. Forming bonds and fostering relationships, with new and existing pals has truly been a gift.

After being in hermit mode, I wanted a way to reconnect with my favorite humans. So, I rallied a few friends, and welcomed, friends of friends, partners, kids, and doggos to join us.

Each week the group picks a new location in our area, to walk until our hearts desire. Let's be real an hour passes and the girlies are ready for a break. We often spend time after the walk, continuing our chatter, and of course the classic Midwestern goodbyes.

Since we've began, we've made friends we would've never met otherwise. Seen besties we usually don't. And had a purpose to leave our homes.

Many of us have continued the adventures beyond the trail. Including the group in our plans outside of the walking club. We've been to the farmers market, Sunday morning coffees, lunch and more. I've seen my bestie more times in the last few weeks than I have the whole year and for that, I'm forever grateful.

The girlies say,

“I really enjoy the people and the funny stories.” Of course we have a comedian to keep us all entertained. The laughs are unreal. I always leave feeling so light and full of love.

“I like the social aspect, I don't really get to see people often, I usually go to work and then home.” In a country that is so busy and work focused, we barely have time to breathe, much less spend time with our families. However, we’ve managed to reserve a couple hours each week, to reconnect with our friends, and be in nature. A reason to leave the house.

“It pushes me to be active.” Sometimes we all need a gentle push from a caring soul, to do the hard things. The commitment is less intense when you’re not alone, while the focus is surrounded, on meeting the group.

Lastly, my thoughts,

“ I’ve cherished getting to know new people and sharing my voice” After the divorce I lost many friends and family. It’s been a blessing to meet such amazing people who are genuinely interested in who I am and what I have to say. For years, I stayed silent, fearing I might offend or upset others, or I’m not interesting enough to speak. Anxiety is so real friends. For me it has out weighted everything, for an exceedingly long time. I have thoughts that deserve to be heard, but often my brain fogs and the words just don't come out. I still struggle to this day. The group has always wanted to hear what I have to say, because what I have to share is important. Maintaining meaningful friendships is very crucial to me. It’s always been a challenge to keep in touch with family and friends. Anxiety is not an excuse, just a logical explanation. I've embarked on a mental health journey, that has elevated me higher than imaginable, yet there is more work ahead. I’m very thankful, this group has helped me preserve connections, met me where I'm at and accepted me as I am.

stay wavvy,

Lindsey