Reposted from Tim Richardson

“When inspiration does not come to me, I go halfway to meet it.” —Sigmund Freud

What do you do when you need a new idea or a mental break?

My inspiration and relaxation both are maximized by the same activity – taking a walk. That is where I often get ideas for my writing and speeches. It also helps alleviate stress.

Harvard Medicine reports that many doctors are prescribing time outdoors for their patients.

The National Park Service suggests that even just 5 minutes walking in nature improves mood, self-esteem, and relaxation.

While I find nature wonderfully inspiring, you certainly don’t have to walk in the woods to claim these benefits.

John Bowers, the Chief Executive Officer for a large law firm, is a friend and recent client. For much of his 25-year career, John has taken the stairs to his office. Since he works in a metropolitan area, his morning walk is taking 15 flights of stairs. He uses that time to think about his day and what he needs to accomplish.

Moving your legs puts your brain into a creative and relaxed state, increasing your mental focus and releasing stress from your entire body.

A necessary part of our lives may be spent in urban environments or in an office all day. Both can be very mentally taxing, affecting our mindset, productivity, and our mental well-being. This makes it increasingly important to force us to do what we may not think that we have time to do.

New innovations and ideas don’t usually occur without allowing a break for our brain and body.

Chances are, you drive to work. Consider parking several blocks away or even in a parking space furthest from your office. Then walk to and from your car. During your lunch break, eat at your desk at least a few days a week and then go for a walk. Schedule your meetings at coffee shops within walking distance. While I like the solitude of walking, you might also consider having a meeting while taking a walk. And you can always be like my friend John and skip the elevator.

Removing yourself from your typical work environment to take an intentional pause can benefit problem solving, approaching a difficult conversation, searching for a creative idea, or just having a mental break from your routine.

Going out of your way to take a slower, longer route might be exactly what your mind and body need. Who knows what inspiration or calming affect will transpire.

Pause to take a walk.

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