Body and “Sole” - These Shoes Were Made for Walking

Many would acknowledge that the concept of walking as a mode of transportation is relatively foreign back in the States, exclusive to bustling metropolitan areas and contrastingly, small towns. Walking takes time, and in a culture that values maximization and efficiency, quicker transportation options win out. I’ve really enjoyed all of the walking we’ve done since coming to Greece (it helps that we stay in apartments and hotels that are surrounded by attractive and exciting destinations). Regardless of this perk, the benefits of walking, especially as tourists in an unfamiliar place, extends to one’s body, soul, and mind (a side note from class today: according to 4 Maccabees, the mind has the capacity to control both the body and soul).

Walking is not merely a form of transportation, but also a form of physical exercise. As opposed to driving, flying, or riding the subway, walking exists as a pragmatic blend between a form of transit and a kind of exercise; biking or running are oftentimes not as practical, especially if your destination requires any form of confining clothing (i.e. a suit or uniform). I find it funny that many people back at home have dismissed walking as a means of transportation because it takes too long. In reality, at least in my opinion (and there are many situations where walking is not in the least bit practical), walking is a way to kill two birds with one stone. Although people may save time driving to a destination, many spend another couple hours exercising at the gym later in the day; with walking, you can do both simultaneously (which has been a fantastic way for me to justify gorging myself during our five-course dinners, as I walk from place to place each day).

Another perk of walking is that it provides a safer and more convenient mode of exploration, which comes in handy while traveling in a foreign country. One could argue that the necessary for exploration back in the States is minimal, as most people travel the same route to and from work everyday, however in our situation, driving from place to place would be confusing and unenjoyable, as there are countless shops and boutiques that beg to be window-shopped. I suggest that walking is beneficial to the mind because it allows one to process more stimuli than driving, one because it requires less thought and two because you are moving slower. In a place like Greece, walking is undoubtedly a better option.

Along similar lines, walking allows time for self-reflection, which helps to engage what one might refer to as the “soul” (it also engages one’s “soles”). Driving seems to me like an extension of our culture’s need to be busy, whereas walking provides an opportunity for meaningful multitasking (transportation AND meditation). Though walking is so much more practical here than it is back home, I find myself desiring a future place of residence where I can walk most everywhere.