The hikers that have joined us on our walks inspire one another in ways beyond our outdoor experiences. They have become "purposeful" hikers - planning ahead of time for their next adventure. As the seasoned hikers continue to attend the walks, they, in turn, welcome the newcomers with the enthusiasm that I share about the opportunity of enjoying the vistas we have surrounding us. Having led the Community Walks for 1 year and the Senior Center hikes for the past 4 years has encouraged and enabled me to learn and experience the trails in Traverse City and the surrounding area. These experiences can be shared with you through your active participation on these trails. To do this, no-charge community walks have been and are offered from the middle of May through October 2014. Along with this there will be a 3rd Annual Traverse City Labor Day Bridge(s) Walk – the reasoning being that right downtown are amazing sites and walking paths/sidewalks that are waiting for you and your friends and families to enjoy. There is also the opportunity to walk the fascinating TART Trail with others in increments of eight classes through NMC. Biking and running on this trail is great, but walking each direction from Bunker Hill to Cherrybend Rd. Another goal is to hopefully become a profitable business wherein conference planners or families hire Traverse City Walks to lead their employees or guests on walks in the area. What about condo associations that are looking for activities? What about weight management groups wanting a more doable activity? What about college programs that have a population of students who might be unable to perform the more difficult type of exercise classes? What about all categories of businesses that want to encourage their employees to develop “wellness” activities? Pure Michigan is promoting our outdoor offerings and Michigan Fitness is encouraging Michigander’s to move more. Movement of our bodies encourages more movement. Many become discouraged because, although walking is so often touted, it seems like we always need to go faster and better. Why not look at walking as the ultimate in movement, and if it leads to faster and more difficult endeavors, so be it, but if it does not, we are still contributing toward our wellness with each walk. Walking alone or in an unknown area can be another determent. Commitment to walk can be aided with someone else organizing the event. Walking can contribute toward your wellness with increased blood flow, decreased stiffness, and increased stamina. If you walk outdoors in nature’s settings taking the time to “smell the roses”, new studies show the increased neurotransmitter connection which may decrease depression. If you walk with others, the socialization can augment longevity. Watch for future walks on facebook.com/TraverseCityWalks. Guided walks/hikes on the TC trails for approx. 1 hour. DOABLE NATURAL NEW EXPERIENCE
Promoting wellness one step, one walk, one trail at a time.
