The 10,000-steps theory wasn't handed down from the fitness gods on stone tablets. It originated from a 1960s Japanese marketing campaign for a pedometer.
Yes, some marketing guy just picked a nice round number that sounded good, and somehow, it became the gold standard for daily activity.
But walking can (and should) be so much more than obsessively checking your step counter!
In our hyper-productive, goal-oriented society, we've reduced walking to just another item on our to-do list.
“Did you hit your 10,000 steps today? No? Well, you've clearly failed at the most basic human movement.”
Ridiculous… isn't it?
Look around the world, and you'll find cultures that understand walking as something far richer than just physical exercise.In Italy, the evening stroll or "passeggiata" isn't about burning calories. It's about community, connection, seeing and being seen, and enjoying life's simple pleasures.The Japanese practice of "shinrin-yoku" (forest bathing) turns walking into mindful nature immersion for stress reduction.The British have their delightfully named "bimble," a purposeless, leisurely stroll with no set destination or timeframe.In India, the spiritual practice of "darshan" involves walking as a form of reverence and pilgrimage.What all these traditions have in common (and what our step-counting obsession misses) is that walking is as much about mental and spiritual well-being as it is about physical health. It's an opportunity for social connection, creative thinking, mindfulness, and even spiritual growth.
When was the last time you went for a walk without checking your phone or tracking your steps? When did you last walk slowly enough to notice the details of your surroundings? Or use a walk as a chance to deepen a relationship through meandering conversation?
Now, to be clear, if counting steps motivates you to move more, that's fine. But don't let the number become the only focus of your walks.
Walking isn't just about going from point A to point B—or checking a health box. It's a fundamental human activity that connects us to ourselves, others, and the world around us.
Cheers!
Dr. Scott, ND
LivingWellDaily.com
P.S. Recent research uncovered a powerful combination that can transform your mind and body, regardless of age or fitness level. Curious? Click HERE to keep reading!
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