New Years Resolution These Legs Are Made For Walking

What can you possibly say about 2020 which does not involve a lot of expletives? It was certainly a year to remember. It is a known fact that the mere prospect of change does not sit well with many people and causes stress and anxiety, but 2020 saw us all change in many ways. We had to quickly adapt to a ‘new normal’, changing the way that we worked, socialised, travelled and engaged with people on a daily basis.

- Natalie Tambolash

It was also a year that made us reflect. It made us all sit down and think about what was truly important in life. It was more about family, friends and health and much less about material things. It was more about being ok and less about what we owned. Minimalism became the fashion and materialism walked out the door. We took to discovering our own backyards, to disconnecting from the everyday and to learning how to stop and breathe again.

My annual holiday was always of the overseas kind, exploring new exotic locations and spending time with friends and family that tagged along with me. This year, alas it wasn’t to be. So after nearly 12 months with no break, I too decided to take to the NZ outdoors and discovered the art of a walking holiday.

I know. Walk and holiday often don’t tend to appear in the same sentence, (even I used to think that). But I can honestly say that having 2 weeks walking in the great outdoors was an experience that left me feeling relaxed and accomplished at the same time. For those that are a little sceptical, here is why I think walking holidays are a great idea.

1. It’s a healthy travel alternative:

“Mauri tÅ« Mauri ora” – “An active soul is a healthy soul”. Walking is good for the heart, the mind and the soul. It helps get your muscles moving, your lungs breathing fresh air, lightens your mood, improves your sleep and you end up fitter after your trip then when you first started even if you are indulging.

2. Walking is suitable for everyone:

From those that are new to a walking holiday, through to those seeking their next challenge or ticking off their bucket list. No matter your fitness level or ability, there is a walkout there to suit everyone.