By Beth Marlin Lichter
That is my prescription for anyone who is weighed down by malaise.
Whether you are suffering from loss of a loved one or pet, have work or housing woes, are experiencing the effects of extreme weather, or are weighed down by any number of other reasons to be depressed, taking a morning walk can be beneficial.
Of course, walking any time of day is beneficial. But there is something special about the first few hours after sunrise. The brain has not yet been cluttered with a multitude of anxious thoughts and the universe feels more spacious and quiet.
Step outside. Welcome a new day. Observe the world around you with fresh eyes. Experience a moment of joy and hold it close no matter what unfolds later on.
One lucky morning this past July, a Mountain Bluebird, folkloric symbol of happiness, hope and renewal, perched on a branch nearby, long enough for me to take a photo. It was my first good look at one. Beautiful, iconic bird. A perfect example of what can happen when you take a morning walk.
Article and Photos by Beth Marlin Lichter
Vancouver Audubon 