Living in the golden age of computers, has its perks but too often we discount simpler activities we indulged in before. Long walks in particular, the benefits of walking are usually discussed for health reasons but I’d like to throw that aside for now. Walking for many of the most famous minds before us was a key part of their routine. It wasn’t because they wanted to stay active, it was just part of their problem solving method. They made sure to set aside time each day to take a long walk.

Walking has been shown to improve creativity by 60% in comparison to sitting. Clearly these great thinkers knew walking was a tool that could take advantage of to improve their own productivity.  So instead of walking away from your problems, you should try walking to solve them. I know its corny but their some truth to it.

Nietzsche notably wrote “all truly great thoughts are conceived while walking”. Beethoven was noted to take various walks throughout the day. He would take small walks while working to aid his creativity and would take a long vigorous walk after eating his dinner. During his walks he would keep a pencil and sheets of music paper on him, to  jot down his flashes of insights. Some say that this was the reason Beethoven was more productive during the warmer months. On the other side is Thomas Jefferson who walked not to foster ideas but rather to clear his mind of thoughts and relax.

I think establishing a routine of taking long walks can be more productive than having a regular brain storming session. Actively trying to come up ideas, usually ends up with the creation of mediocre ideas. If your going for a walk, I’d recommend going for at least 20 mins. Make sure to have a device (pen & paper, cellphone) to note down any ideas that pop into your head, even if your goal is to just relax your mind. Also don’t forget to enjoy your walk and take in the air around you.