I'm So Pedestrian
Pedestrian—such a meh word, isn't it? In everyday language, it’s often a mild insult, synonymous with "dull" or "ordinary." I feel the inherent sneer behind it. But today I’m flipping that meaning on its head by sharing why being a pedestrian is anything but mundane. In its literal sense—a person who walks—that pedestrian is engaged in the ultimate multitasking activity. Walking is a powerhouse of benefits for body, mind, spirit, economy, and environment. Let’s step in . . .
The Origins of "Pedestrian"
The word "pedestrian" comes from the Latin word "pedester," meaning "going on foot." It wasn’t until the 18th century that the term began to acquire its more negative connotations. Originally, it was just a straightforward way to describe someone who traveled by foot. Unfortunately, over time, "pedestrian" began to be used metaphorically to describe anything that was considered common or unremarkable. Again, feeling the sneer . . .
The Bodily Benefits
Walking is one of the simplest forms of exercise, yet it yields incredible health benefits. According to the American Heart Association, walking at a brisk pace can help you maintain a healthy weight, prevent or manage various conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes, strengthen your bones and muscles, and improve your mood, balance, and coordination. That’s a very short list—the full scope of benefits is too long to list. Walking treats or prevents over 100 diseases. If it were a pill, it would be priceless. It’s the #1 doctor prescribed exercise.
Now let’s talk more numbers. The CDC reports that only 23% of Americans get enough exercise. Imagine if everyone embraced walking as their primary mode of transportation. A study by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation found that if all Americans walked 30 minutes a day, we could save an estimated $100 billion in annual health care costs. Again, for emphasis: $100 billion!
A Boost for the Mind
Walking doesn’t just benefit the body; it’s a tonic for the mind too. Walking has been shown to improve cognitive function, increase creativity, and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. In fact, a Stanford University study found that walking boosts creative output by an average of 60%. If you’re feeling stuck on a problem or need a spark of inspiration, put on your shoes and walk out the door. It works.
Nurturing the Spirit
There’s something inherently meditative about walking. It allows you to connect with the world around you, notice the small details of nature, and find a rhythm that soothes the soul. Whether it’s a quiet morning stroll or a brisk walk through a bustling city, walking can be a spiritual practice that grounds and revitalizes you. I start every day with a walk. It’s a sacred time, space and practice for me that yields incredible benefits, no matter what’s going on in my life or world.
Economic Benefits
Beyond personal health, walking can have significant economic benefits. Cities designed with pedestrians in mind tend to have thriving local economies. Walkable neighborhoods attract more foot traffic to local businesses, increasing sales and fostering a sense of community.
Moreover, walking is cost-effective. The American Public Transportation Association notes that individuals who live in walkable neighborhoods save an average of $9,000 annually on transportation costs. These savings can then be redirected into the local economy, further bolstering community development.
Environmental Impact
Let’s not forget the environmental benefits. Walking is a zero-emission mode of transportation. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that transportation accounts for nearly 30% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. If more people chose to walk instead of drive, we could make a significant dent in our carbon footprint.
Consider this: If every American walked to work or school just one day a week, it would reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 5.5 million tons annually. That’s the equivalent of taking about 1.2 million cars off the road for a year!
Walking into the Future
So, there you have it. Being pedestrian, in its truest sense, is far from dull. It’s a transformative activity that can improve our health, boost our economy, nurture our spirit, and save our planet. Next time you lace up your walking shoes, remember that you’re engaging in a revolutionary act of self-care and environmental stewardship.
Embrace your inner pedestrian. After all, it’s one of the most remarkable things you can be.
Being remarkable is good.
Let’s keep the good going and growing . . .
XO Laura