by Nick Halpin
At times anxieties can grip us, seizing us in different ways: some of us will suffer from lack of sleep, poor appetite, various somatic disorders and other symptoms of discomfort. Our sense of humour, of the ridiculous, diminishes and our drive and sense of wellbeing can be affected.
Walking is a wonderful antidote to anxiety, but sometimes we dismiss its stress-busting benefits because our walks are too short, too distracted by a tight schedule, sometimes too encumbered by the needs of other people. Often we decide to go for a walk, only to find that - all too quickly - we have reached our destination. Then we turn around towards our starting point, and pick up all our previous cares with each step of the return journey.
Longer walks on the Scottish hills or along low-lying forestry trails provide sufficient time to really break free from our daily concerns. Within easy reach of Dundee we are blessed with the Sidlaws, Tentsmuir, Norman's Law and the Lomond Hills, to name but a few. Further afield we can enjoy the glens of Kirriemuir and the hills around Glenshee and Pitlochry.
After a couple of hours out in the open, the stresses of the week usually give way to a happier, more carefree outlook. It's not often that we meet up with a grumpy walker. With the weather easing and the sun beckoning, see what a new perspective can do for you!