Lush greenery from each house’s yard space fills the air with a fresh, pleasant aroma. Towering trees gives shade to the concrete sidewalks that my mother and I walk upon throughout our neighborhood’s streets, and the shafts of sunlight that slowly peek through the blankets of branches above cast a warm glow on my body. My mind feels at ease knowing that this surrounding nature is here to stay, and the silent roads only interrupted by my mom and I’s soft conversation remind me to find the quiet within the noise found in such a bustling city, and in my head during times of stress.

Going on these walks helps me take care of myself and my mental health as I am reminded to take a moment and pause. Pause, take a deep breath, and take in the serene sights and sounds of the environment around me. I can feel the energy pumping through my legs as my mom and I reach a steady hill, and I can smell the fragrant wafts of cooking coming from the kitchens of homes we pass by. As the sun starts to set in the distance, I am a bit disappointed, as my mom and I will have to get home soon before dark, but I know we can always return, making me look forward to the next time we have the chance to walk together. With my mom, I feel comfortable talking to her about almost anything, and our mutual understanding brings us along various conversation topics during our walks, ranging from something deeply personal and thought-provoking to something so trivial, it gets us cracking up on the spot.

That is why I value these walks so much, because my mind and body can take a break from the rigid schedules I’m committed to for school. I am encouraged to be kinder to myself by getting my body moving, as well as spending meaningful time with my loved ones. I feel closer to my community as my mom and I go on walks and interact with our neighbors. Like the head of a flower reaching to capture more sunlight, my hand reaches to grasp the hand of my mom, while the other outstretches towards the sky, eager to feel the warm rays on my palm.