DO YOU RUN TO CLEAR YOUR MIND? I go outside when I want a new perspective to solve a problem. A new TikTok trend blends physical activity and environmental exposure. This essay explores stealth strolling, the hush-hush trend taking social media by whisper.
Silent walking. This new trend combines the health upsides of exposure to nature, physical activity, and meditation to center and calm its participants.
“The tree which moves some to tears of joy is in the eyes of others only a green thing that stands in the way. Some see nature as all ridicule and deformity… and some scarce see nature at all. But to the eyes of the man of imagination, nature is imagination itself.” ― William Blake.
The new TikTok trend caught my eye, as I frequently don Airpods to listen to classical piano music (often takes of a piece I am working on) as I walk.
What is Silent Walking?
“Silent walking” was first coined by “Okay Sis” podcaster Mady Maio, 29, from Los Angeles, in June 2023. She is a TikTok creator.
Maio observes that the initial two minutes were “mayhem.” Her brain had not yet adjusted to the silence, but she soon shifted to a flow state. With her TikTok posting, she has started a new walking movement.
While walking in silence may seem odd, the approach allows you to be alone with your thoughts. Having taken off my headphones to try it, I see its value.
A Refreshing Escape From the Chaos
In a world filled with constant noise, bustling streets, and digital distractions, the new trend offers a refreshing escape from the chaos: silent walking.
This innovative practice involves moving through life’s pathways with deliberate and muted steps, embracing the power of stillness in motion.
As the trend gains momentum and popularity, it prompted me to explore its origins and the reasons behind its rapid rise.
Silent walking is not merely about physical movement; it’s a holistic experience that engages the mind, body, and soul.
From mindfulness and meditation practices, silent walking allows me to disconnect from the external clamor and reconnect with my internal rhythms.
I consciously slow down and pay attention to each step. This practice cultivates a profound sense of presence, awareness, and inner calm.
A Counterpoint to Constant Stimulation
Our surroundings are filled with constant stimulation. Silent walking serves as a counterpoint, reminding us of the beauty that lies in simplicity. By constantly forgoing the need to fill the void with noise, we allow ourselves to appreciate our surroundings’ subtleties.
The gentle rustling of leaves, the distant hum of a city, or the rhythmic sound of our breath becomes more pronounced. This heightened awareness not only deepens our connection with the environment but also with ourselves.
The digital age has connected us in previously unimaginable ways, yet it has also led to disconnection from our immediate surroundings. Silent walking offers a chance to bridge this gap.
As individuals put down their screens and venture outside for a quiet stroll, they create space for authentic connection — with nature, the people they encounter, and their thoughts.
Even in a group, the shared experience of silent walking can foster a unique sense of unity without needing spoken words.
Why is Silent Walking Going Viral?
The viral nature of this trend can be attributed to its universality and accessibility.
Silent walking requires no specialized equipment, a particular location, or prior training. It’s an egalitarian practice that anyone can adopt, regardless of age, background, or physical fitness.
Its simplicity is its strength, allowing it to transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries and facilitating its rapid spread through social media platforms.
Is There Evidence to Support the Practice?
Recent research indicated that walking or exercising in nature may also be an effective intervention to improve sleep.”
Moreover, a separate study discovered that adults taking 90-minute walks in nature reported less rumination (dwelling on negative, stressful thoughts).
In addition to mental health improvements, mindfulness practices (such as silent walking) can lower heart rate and blood pressure, improve heart rate variability, drop blood sugar levels, and provide a shot to your immune system.
Cons of Silent Walking
As with any trend, there are both proponents and skeptics. Critics might argue that silent walking is a fleeting fad destined to be replaced by the next sensation.
However, its historical ties to mindfulness traditions suggest that its enduring principles have stood the test of time. Moreover, the trend’s popularity indicates a deeper societal need — an antidote to our fast-paced, digitally saturated lives.
Consider joining the silent walking movement. The answer lies in your journey.
Silent walking might be worth exploring if you find solace in quiet reflection, yearn for a respite from the daily cacophony, or seek a novel way to connect with others.
Potential downsides of silent walking include safety concerns and challenges in finding quiet walking areas.
Silent walking is not a one-size-fits-all solution but an invitation to embark on a unique adventure — one step at a time.
Getting Started with Silent Walking
Do you want to try silent walking? Here are some tips:
- Find somewhere reasonably quiet to walk.
- Start walking.
- Keep walking.
- Don’t check your smartphone. Just keep walking.
- Are you listening? Don’t check your freaking smartphone. Just walk.
I leave my devices tucked away in my pocket. I move my smartwatch there, too.
All those social media apps are designed to keep seeking your attention. Put them away.
Final Thoughts — Silent Walking
In conclusion, silent walking is more than just a trend; it’s a reminder that amidst the noise of modern life, there exists an oasis of tranquility that we can access at any moment.
As we tread softly on this path of muted footsteps, we open ourselves to the possibility of deeper connections, both with our environment and with ourselves.
Whether this trend maintains its virality or fades away, count me in. I want to embrace the power of stillness in our ever-moving world.
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The information I provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice.
Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. I am not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information in this blog.
Thank you for reading “Stealth Strolling: The Hush-Hush Trend Taking Social Media by Whisper.”
