Yes, there is an artist who attempts to link contemporary walking with contemporary art. His name is Hamish Fulton, born in 1946 in London.
I am hopeful that the experience of walking awakens your creative passion, whether as a writer, photographer, artist, or designer. Mr. Fulton has inspired me to use my walks and hikes as a springboard to record my observations of the natural world while hiking. I have begun to write daily in a very modest way in a journal. I’ve already sensed a heightened sense of observation when I am out walking. Who knows where this will lead?
Whenever I return from a journey overseas I realize that I just spent a great deal of time exploring a new town or city when I have yet to explore all that there is to see in my own area. That being said…it’s time to spend time along the biggest waterway in Santa Cruz, The San Lorenzo River. How many times have we crossed one of the 7 bridges spanning this river on our way to the beach or to downtown?
It’s time to spend some quality time along the shores of the river. This Sunday, the 16th, I’ve organized a group of walkers (you’re invited) to meet at 9am at the mouth of the river on East Cliff Drive, near the intersection with Murray Street, overlooking the beach. We will walk 2.5 miles along the river, crossing all 7 bridges, arriving at the Tannery Arts Center. Then, we will return, criss-crossing along the bridges back to our starting point (around 11am or so?).
The route is paved and flat but still offers a sense of wilderness with many migratory birds to observe. Dogs on leash and kids in strollers are welcome.
If you can’t make Sunday’s walk, please click here to see a map of the walk. Next time you have a couple of hours and want to see some new views of Santa Cruz, take a walk along the river!
I’m always interested in reading about the many ways people explore the planet on foot. When I think of walking or hiking I picture outdoor scenes with picturesque views. I recently read the most fascinating article about a wilderness adventure in New York City. The leader of this most unusual journey was Erling Kagge, a Norwegian explorer. Erling has climbed Mount Everest and trekked to the North and South poles. His partner in this adventure was Steve Duncan, who has spent more than a decade walking city subways, sewers and storm drains. In December 2010, they led a walking tour UNDER New York City, sleeping below the surface each night.
Most of us have resolved to do something during the new year to improve our health.
Now comes another good reason to start walking MORE often!
A recent medical study showed that walking may slow cognitive decline and preserve more brain volume in older adults, particularly those with Alzheimer’s desease.
Just 5 miles a week made a significant difference. It appears that walking strengthens the brain structure and reduces memory loss.
Make walking one of your daily priorities and have a healthy new year.