How to design your own neighborhood walk

How to design your own neighborhood walk

I love walking through my neighborhood and have been doing it regularly since we moved to our current home in the mid-90s. Now with the pandemic, it’s especially nice. There is something empowering about walking right out your front door for a little trek.

When I walk, I choose from three different routes that I have created and modified over the years. Each is unique. One is more park with a beautiful urban forest, another more residential with hills and water views, and the third a destination walk to the downtown area for lunch, coffee, or a few groceries. You too, can create your own neighborhood walk. I’ll tell you how below in eight steps. But first, here are many of the benefits you’ll experience while walking.

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A calming backyard meditation

A calming backyard meditation

I still remember the first time I meditated more than 10 years ago. It was Christmas time and I had picked up a how-to book at a used bookstore. I sat on the floor next to our Christmas tree, closed my eyes, focused on the in and out of my breath and immediately fell asleep. Not exactly what I was expecting.

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WALK THIS WAY: Alki Beach & Schmitz Preserve, June 15, 2019

WALK THIS WAY: Alki Beach & Schmitz Preserve, June 15, 2019

Come walk with us! We lead small groups of walkers through Seattle neighborhoods. They are interesting, free and fun!

Our next walk kicks off summer as we explore Alki Beach and Schmitz Preserve. This urban beach walk takes us along Elliot Bay with beautiful views of the Olympic mountains and Seattle skyline. It feels like a California beach town…

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Dahlias in full bloom at Volunteer Park

Dahlias in full bloom at Volunteer Park

This is a beautiful Seattle park for fall walks, picnics and exploring. (A favorite for runners, too.) It's located in the Capital Hill neighborhood near 15th--a hip street lined with cool eateries, pubs and coffee houses, making it a perfect place for a morning Sunday walk, followed by brunch or coffee! Volunteer Park also has a wonderful conservatory. So go when you can, and savor every step as you explore this wonderful park.

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April 22 is Earth Day: Seven simple things you can do

April 22 is Earth Day: Seven simple things you can do

Today, more than ever, ongoing sustainability efforts are critical to keep our great big earth healthy. And there are many easy things we can do to support this effort. But before we support anything, the first step is always feeling a natural connection with it. So here are some easy ways to grow your connection with nature on Earth Day or any day.

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Seven things to do outside this winter

Seven things to do outside this winter

If you are like me, you probably like to stay active throughout the winter months. A 30-minute brisk walk usually works, but if you want a little more fun and variety this winter, try some of these options.


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Explore a park this SPRING

Explore a park this SPRING

I just got back from a few days in the Columbia Gorge, one of the most lush natural areas in the Pacific Northwest.

I returned home believing that exploring a park or some other natural area might be the next best thing you can do for yourself this spring. Here is a bit of description about our recent excursion to the Columbia Gorge. 

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