Rain or shine

I’m not controlled by weather – I embrace it.

For the past 635 days, without fail, I have walked for at least 45 min – typically an hour or more – many days 2 1/2 hrs and even barefoot.

Walking is my non-negotiable.

Day or night. 

Rain or shine. 

Hot or cold.

In the snow, during blizzards, hail, wind, freezing rain, on cloudy days or sunny days, amidst humidity, even with the mosquitos – no matter what.

I give thanks for it all.

I love it when it’s “bad” weather – because it’s a separator. First, it means I usually get the trail to myself. Second, I get that extra sense of satisfaction and accomplishment because I was willing to do something that the average person wasn’t.

The discipline builds my confidence.

There have been days that I’ve missed reading, or meditating, or yoga – even energy work – but I haven’t missed a day of walking in almost 2 years.

It’s truly my sacred time. Every walk is different, but I find myself praying, meditating, giving thanks, reflecting, doing energy work; connecting to Mother Nature, Source, the trees, the river and the birds – and occasionally even a human.

I am committed to this time for me, it fills my soul, renews my spirt, grounds me, fills my heart with gratitude and always brings a smile to my face. I’m home. I’m loved and supported. I can just be.

If I’m not able to walk through the day by the river I’ll walk at night under the stars. I’ve even been known to walk at the wee hours of 2 or 3am, it doesn’t matter to me – it’s my commitment, so it gets done no matter what.

I value myself too much not to take this time for myself. People may say they’re too busy to walk every day and think I’m lucky that I get to, but the fact is, it’s a choice. It’s a matter of priorities. We each have the same hours in the day, I just happen to dedicate my extra time to my growth, my health, my well-being, my energy and my connection to Source and Mother Nature. You can too.

It’s a simple gift that I give to myself every day, knowing that it gives back exponentially to me, my loved ones and everyone I am in contact with. 

What’s your non-negotiable?