First Glance

Connecting with Nature

Morning routines have not varied significantly for me over the past number of years. I’m out of bed at 5 am, head to my study, power up my computer to access my favorite links and peruse the latest news before checking the weather forecast. I scroll to my favorite weather app to check the temperature and radar so that I can prepare the workout gear that will best accommodate my transition to nature’s elements.

The very methodical and mundane approach to my workouts has remained constant for many years. I begin my workouts by making sure my Garmin 230 smart watch, aka my training partner, receives the satellite connection that provides me with data I need to monitor my walk. Periodically during my workouts, I’d check the information being communicated to be sure I was attaining my goals. What’s my pace per mile? How many miles have I covered? What’s my projected finish time? Was my training routine preparing me for a PR (personal record) in my upcoming half marathon?

The rigid habits that guided my life’s physical activity mantra were unbreakable, or so I thought. When COVID-19 arrived, my routine was interrupted with an unexpected awakening. The race for which I was preparing was now going virtual instead of in person, causing my bubble to burst. I had come to a reckoning. There was no need to make every workout a competition between my goals and my Garmin. I realized that going out for a walk provided an opportunity to get in touch with my surroundings.

Reading Molly Scott’s piece Learning to Adapt reinforced my discovery. Without being consciously aware that I was walking mindfully, an appreciation of my environment had entered my world. After having traversed the same streets, walking and running trails and neighborhoods in New Albany for over 25 years, I realized I had overlooked the beauty that our community provides. The aroma of lilac trees, views of creeks I did not know existed and awareness of the distinct architectural characteristics of the many structures provided a path to the neural network of my brain’s mental workspace. I was enlightened.

While I continue to maintain a competitive theme to my workouts, it is by no means as frequent as before. Like me, I urge you to discover the beautiful surroundings our community offers. Read Molly’s piece and take a mindful walk. Your state of health will be enhanced.

Healthfully,

Phil Heit Executive Director Emeritus Healthy New Albany