If I added up all the times I’ve said to myself, “I wish I’d gone on a walk today,” in that time, I could probably run a marathon. And I’m not a fast runner.
I love wandering in the Natural Lands, going on runs, and venturing into Northfield’s neighborhood streets. I enjoy going to the gym and doing short, silly workouts. But when you spend all day trekking from one classroom to another, and when you look at the hill down to Skoglund and think about how tired you’ll be afterwards — not to mention the work time you’ll be missing out on — the zest for intentional movement sours.
Yet I know that exercising makes me happy. Especially now, when the sky is an unbelievable blue, curling leaves crunch under your shoes, sunlight glazes the trees, and the temperature isn’t boiling hot or freezing cold. Even if I’m indoors, I take delight in seeing autumn through a window, in knowing it’s out there, waiting to be enjoyed.
Exercise is worth it. As a student on the Hill, here are some ways that I stay active.
One: Go on walks, no matter how short. After meals or before classes, sometimes I just walk in circles around campus, taking the longest way possible. The scenic route, if you will. Buntrock to Regents to CAD to your dorm? That’s a good ten to fifteen minutes right there. Bonus points if you run an errand along the way.
Two: Stretch. Stretching has become a part of my evening routine. I retire to my room, put on a video, and let my limbs relax. It gives me structure in my day, helps me unwind, and is hopefully contributing to my longtime desire to be able to do the splits.
Three: Fulfill that active body (ACB) credit. I’ve always wanted to get into social dance, so this semester, I’m taking ballroom — and loving it. In fact, I’ve somehow found myself joining the Ballroom Team. ACB courses are the perfect way to dip your toes into a sport or activity you’ve always wanted to try, and continuing from there is easy. Join a co-curricular and exercise your body and social skills at the same time!
In the end, move in a way that works for you. Five minutes or an hour, alone or with a group — nourish your body and soul. Maybe I’ll see you on the Quad.
