If you ask my 15-year-old son what family activity he’d like to do, his answer will often be “go on a hike.” He’s usually at the head of our pack, his long legs propelling him across whatever terrain he meets without much of a thought while the rest of us follow his lead. For him, hiking is a way of connecting with those around him, and a way for him to take the time he needs to take a step away from the constant activity and boisterous actions of the rest of the crew—like his talkative mama and pesky little brother.
You see, my son is what you would call an introvert. No, he’s not particularly shy, but he is introspective. He loves being part of a team and working toward a common goal, but then he needs to be able to refuel. To refill his cup. And taking a walk, or a hike, gives him the opportunity to do both.
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, introversion is “a typically reserved or quiet person who tends to be introspective and enjoys spending time alone.” For introverts, being alone or finding a quiet place is how they tend to gain energy, and taking a walk in nature is a prime solution.
And though a solo walk might be a dream come true for introverts, walking with others gives them the social interaction they need in a way that feels comfortable. Not only do they get the mental and physical benefits of being out in nature and moving their body, but they feel like they are working together. This feeling often opens up my son’s line of communication, and I find him cracking jokes, sharing what’s on his mind, and letting us into his hard-to-penetrate teenage world.
This shoulder-to-shoulder interaction, and not feeling like he’s under pressure to communicate, gives him the feeling of safety and understanding. And, as soon as he feels his cup getting low, he has the opportunity to take a few steps forward, separate himself from the crowd, and refill his cup.
I’ve learned a lot walking with my son. He’s taught me that we can be connected but quiet. We can share a common appreciation for our surroundings without saying much. We can relate to one another as we walk toward a common goal. And though our way of getting through the walk might be different, we can share the same sense of fulfillment when we reach the finish line.
Hiking might be my son’s favorite family activity, but it’s also mine because it gives me a chance to honor him and his personality and show him that I see him and appreciate the way he ticks. And while he refills his cup by walking those few steps ahead, he’s refilling mine, too, seeing the happiness he gains by taking a walk.
Article by Erin Stolle, 99 Walks Content Manager
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