There’s something wonderfully invigorating about walking on a windy day. Long before “windy walks” became a thing, the Australian geologist Douglas Mawson and his team in Antarctica were pioneering what they called “hurricane walking” back in 1911 — quite literally harnessing the power of the storm to move forward. Mawson described it as a full sensory experience, the wind stamping its raw energy into body and mind.
The Dutch have a lovely expression for it too: lekker uitwaaien, which roughly translates as “nice outblowing”. It’s their way of saying, “go out, let the wind clear your head and refresh your spirit.” Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician, even thought that certain winds — particularly those from the east — were good for our health. Clearly, the idea of walking with the wind has long stirred something in us.
How Wind Affects Us
Scientists in the emerging field of biometeorology — the study of how weather affects our bodies and moods — have a few theories about wind’s impact. Some suggest that strong winds trigger a stress response, getting our adrenaline pumping. Others think that they might alter the balance of positive ions in the air, affecting serotonin levels in the brain.
Whether or not the science is settled, most of us can agree that weather influences how we feel. A Swedish study found that while gusty weather lifts the mood for some, it dampens it for others. An earlier study noted that women, in particular, tend to be more responsive to weather changes. Whatever the case, a brisk, windy walk is certainly an experience that awakens the senses.
A Feast for the Senses
A windy walk is about far more than just movement — it’s an immersion in sound, sight and touch. In woodland, we can listen to the wind’s song: the rustle of dry leaves, the creak of trunks, the whoosh of branches above. Lakes and ponds shimmer and dance with light and ripples, while the coast puts on its own wild performance — the crash of surf, the sting of sea spray, the rush of air and water meeting.
A Natural Workout
Walking in the wind is also surprisingly good exercise. Pushing against it strengthens our legs, core and lungs, while walking with the wind behind us calls on our abdominal muscles to keep us steady. Add an uphill stretch and you’ve got a perfect, natural workout — no gym membership required!
Windy days also tend to clear pollution from the air, making them excellent for city strolls. You’ll find the streets and parks quieter too, as fewer people (and insects!) venture out when it’s blustery.
Tips for Enjoying a Windy Walk
If you’re tempted to step out into the breeze, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Tie up long hair, scarves and any loose ends.
- Choose a hat that fits snugly or has a chin strap.
- Avoid baggy clothing and keep pockets zipped.
- On cold days, layer up with gloves and a windproof anorak.
- Moisturise your skin and lips to protect against the drying air.
- Wear sunglasses if it’s dusty or sandy.
- Steer clear of dangerous areas such as cliff edges or exposed ridges.
- Use a clear plastic map case or your phone’s GPS.
- Hiking poles can add balance and support.
- Avoid walking in winds above 35mph, and skip the hilltops if it’s gusty.
- Drink plenty of water — wind walking can be surprisingly dehydrating!
Let the Wind Lead the Way
Next time you see the trees swaying and hear the wind whistling through the branches, take it as an invitation. Wrap up warm, step outside, and let the wind sweep away the cobwebs — body and soul.
After all, as the Dutch would say, there’s nothing quite like a bit of lekker uitwaaien.
Source: 52 Ways to Walk: Annabel Streets – Bloomsbury Publishing