Walk Your Stress Away
When I feel stuck, stressed, or find myself staring at a blank page for far too long, I get up and move. Intuitively, I knew walking boosts creative thinking and relieves stress—that’s why I started my coaching practice over 20 years ago with a walk-and-talk approach. Speed ahead and we now have some solid evidence. When we walk, we get out of our own way, and open our minds to greater possibilities.
This isn’t magic—it’s movement. Studies show that even a brief walk can boost creativity, reduce stress, and sharpen your thinking. Yet so many of us try to "power through" by staying put, convinced that stillness equals productivity. But your brain—just like your body—thrives on motion. If you’re feeling foggy, tense, or stuck in a loop of overthinking, it might be time to stop forcing it… and start walking.
Move With Intention
To get even more from your walk, try one of these Positive Psychology-inspired walks from my Mindful Stepping™ card deck. Each one is designed to spark a shift—whether in mindset, relationships, or purpose. These powerful mini-interventions can boost your mental and emotional well-being as well as your relationships.
Positivity Boost
Shift your lens to gratitude.
Observe your surroundings as you walk.
What do you see that makes you smile or feel thankful?
Pause and let yourself saturate in those moments of joy.
Relationship Boost
Walk and connect with a friend or family.
On the way out, tell them what you admire most about them.
On the way back, switch roles and soak in what they share about you.
Reflect: how can you both use those insights to deepen your bond?
Confidence Boost
Think of a time when you felt at the top of your game.
What were you doing? What skills were you using?
Who supported you?
Ask yourself: How can I create more of those experiences now?
Mindfulness Boost
Choose one object of focus: the trees, sky, a sound, a person.
Notice every detail—colors, textures, smells, shapes.
Let yourself savor the object and get completely immersed in the present moment.
How does your mind feel by the end of the walk?
Purpose Boost
As you walk, reflect: what kind of impact have I made so far?
What imprints have you made on the people in your life? What will they remember about you?
What future contributions are calling you—people, causes, or places?
Ask yourself: What small action can you take today to make a difference?
Ready to Take the First Step?
Even one intentional walk can change the tone of your day. Try rotating through these walks during your week—or pick one and do it daily. Notice how your mindset shifts and your stress begins to melt.
Want to try a walk-and-talk coaching session with me?
Let’s connect. Book a complimentary call to learn more about my coaching approach.