We didn’t know there was a name for it. But that quiet little walk we take most mornings, the one where we don’t listen to anything, don’t scroll, don’t even talk much, is called awe walking.
Turns out, science finally caught up with slow living.
Researchers say awe walking is a simple, intentional practice that helps you connect with your surroundings and experience small moments of wonder. And get this: it improves your mental health.
Well, hello.
That’s basically what our lifestyle is built around.
What Is Awe Walking?
Awe walking is the act of going on a walk specifically to notice and appreciate the world around you. No phone, no rush, no destination. Just curiosity.
It’s not about getting your steps in or hitting a fitness goal.
It’s about slowing down enough to let something surprise you.
Maybe it’s the way the light hits the sidewalk.
Or the ridiculous way your dog snorts at a shell.
Or a flower you swear wasn’t blooming yesterday.
It’s the opposite of multitasking. It’s being right here, right now, on purpose. Be here now.
Why It Matters (and Why We’re Already Doing It)
We started taking sanity walks like this during the lockdown of 2020. Mainly, we did it because we needed to go out. Out of the noise, the hustle, the to-do list.
We didn’t call it anything fancy.
We just walked. But now we know there’s research behind the magic: studies show that awe-walking can boost mood, reduce anxiety, and make you feel more connected to the world around you.
One study from UC Berkeley found that people who did this regularly experienced greater joy and a stronger sense of meaning.
And they weren’t even walking with Rue and Bea, so imagine how much better it could be.
How to Try Awe Walking
It’s so simple it almost feels silly to explain, but here’s what helps us:
1. Leave your phone behind (or in airplane mode).
The goal is to notice, not scroll.
2. Pick a route that lets you see nature.
This doesn’t mean a mountain hike. Your neighborhood, a beach path, or even a park with three trees will do.
3. Walk slower than usual.
This isn’t a power walk. Permit yourself to meander. Stop if you want. Look up.
4. Let yourself be surprised.
Try to notice one thing you’ve never seen before. That’s it. That’s the whole deal.
5. If you’re walking with someone, agree to walk mostly in silence.
It’s not awkward. It’s intentional. And honestly, it’s kind of beautiful.
Awe, Walking, and Minimalism
We’ve realized that awe-walking is minimalism in motion. It’s the act of doing less but getting more from it.
More clarity. More peace. More appreciation for things you might otherwise miss.
It costs nothing. You don’t need outdoor gear. You don’t need a plan.
You need to go outside and let the world reveal something small and beautiful to you.
We’ll never stop advocating for significant, bold lifestyle shifts, but sometimes, it’s the tiniest habit that quietly changes everything.
So yeah, we’re into awe-walking.
And we’ll keep doing it, whether it’s trending or not.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
Even once a week can make a difference. Studies suggest as little as 15 minutes once a week led to mood improvements. But the more often you do it, the more it becomes a natural habit.
Yes! In fact, dogs are the OG awe walkers. They’re constantly stopping to smell, stare, and marvel. Just follow their lead (unless they’re trying to eat trash, then maybe take the lead back).
It’s similar, but with movement. Awe walking is a form of mindfulness that gets you out of your head and into your surroundings. No sitting required.
