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Due to the recent COVID-19 restrictions, my gym has closed. As a result, I’ve been forced to get creative with how I exercise, and that, it turns out, has meant a lot of walking. 

To be honest, until recently, I’d never much enjoyed walking. I liked the idea of it, of listening to music and zoning out for an hour in the fresh air, but I always felt like I was mimicking enjoyment, counting down the minutes until I could return home. 

I don’t know if it’s just a shift in mindset, or it’s the fact that, as a result of new social distancing practices, going outside feels sort of like a luxury, but I’ve suddenly become an avid walker. I’m appreciating things I only used to pretend to appreciate: the feel of grass, the cool air, the quiet solitude. I’d remind everyone that while going out for brunch isn’t on the cards, getting fresh air in your lungs certainly should be, and we’re lucky here in Australia that the beginning of Autumn is mostly blue skies and crisp, cool air. 

I’m not sure if walking will remain a favourite pastime or if its joy will be short-lived. Either way, I’m thankful for how completely reviving it is during this time.