Take a walk with Edith Bowman to blow away the cobwebs

The Mind to Walk podcast, narrated by the DJ and presenter, talks you through a walk that will relax your mind as you move your feet.

Launched by Scotland’s walking charity Paths for All, the audio is designed using mindfulness techniques to help people look after their mental well-being while getting their daily exercise during Covid-19.

During periods of social distancing, isolation and uncertainty, many have expressed increased feelings of anxiety, stress or worry.

Daily outdoor exercise, whilst adhering to social distancing guidelines, has become an important way to look after physical and mental well-being.

The podcast uses Edith’s familiar voice to help the listener bring their mind and body together while enjoying 25 minutes of self-care.

Launched as part of May’s National Walking Month, the campaign aims to support people dealing with stress and anxiety caused by Covid-19 during their once daily outdoor exercise – as recommended by the government.

Ian Findlay, chief officer with Paths for All, hopes that people of all ages will give the podcast a listen and believes the calming benefits can be far-reaching.

He said: “The power of a short daily walk has become even stronger recently. It’s a time for us to wander outside, get some fresh air and leave our worries behind.

“With the podcast, we’re hoping to make that burst of activity even more beneficial by helping people tune into their surroundings.

“The podcast is expertly scripted and Edith’s voice will help any listener thoroughly de-stress and clear their head, to remove some of the tension a lot of us are feeling.

“I’d encourage you to try this frequently on your daily walks as evidence shows that the effects of mindfulness are greater the more you practice.

“The script is designed to be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of experience in using mindfulness techniques.”

Written by Glasgow-based meditation expert Dassini Cadwallender, Mind to Walk has been designed to be used on any walking route.

Edith said: “This is such a strange time for us all and being aware of your physical and mental health is so important.

“If I can do one small thing to help a few folk’s lockdown be less anxiety-ridden, that will make me very happy. If we can get as many people as possible taking the podcast on their walks that would be incredible and, hopefully, helpful to them.”

Mind to Walk is freely available online on all podcast players or at www.pathsforall.org.uk/mindtowalk.