by Judith Couchman

Writing is one way of making the world our own, and . . . walking is another.

—Geoff Nicholson

Long before doctors claimed physical movement as heart healthy, walking and writing joined hands. Writers have traipsed miles to stretch their legs, clear their brains, and feed their creativity. Walking enhanced their ability to form ideas and solve dilemmas.

The poets William Blake and Henry Wadsworth walked to explore their imaginations. Charles Henry Miller explained, “Most writing is done away from the typewriter, away from the desk. I’d say it occurs in the quiet, silent moments, while you’re walking.” Charles Dickens claimed, “The sum of the whole is this: walk and be happy; walk and be healthy.”

More recently, the prolific author Julia Cameron heartily recommends walking for informing her work. She walks to listen to her soul. “All large change is made through many small steps. Notice that word in there: ‘steps.’ Walking leads us a step at a time. Walking gives us a gentle path,” she says. “We are talked to as we walk. We hear guidance. It comes from within us and from the world around us.”

If you’re tired but need to write, pause to walk. It will revive you, body and soul.

Judith Couchman is an author, speaker, writing coach, and adjunct professor. She’s traditionally published more than 42 works. Learn more about her at www.judithcouchman.com. Write to her at judith@judithcouchman.com.

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