I woke up to the sound of raindrops tapping against the window. The sky outside was a dull shade of gray. Glancing at the clock, I saw it was time for my usual morning walk—but today, that wasn’t an option. I told myself it couldn’t be helped, yet a faint sense of unease lingered in my chest.
I believe that morning walks help with insomnia. In fact, studies suggest that getting natural light through morning walks or moderate exercise can reset the body’s internal clock and improve sleep quality at night. According to research by the National Sleep Foundation, exposure to morning sunlight helps regulate daytime alertness and nighttime drowsiness, playing a role in easing insomnia.
And yet, the fact that skipping a single walk makes me worry about sleeping poorly tonight is a sign that this routine has started turning into an obligation. My morning walks have become a part of my life, but if missing one makes me anxious, doesn’t that mean I’m letting it control me instead?
As I listened to the rain, I thought to myself—morning walks alone can’t completely cure insomnia. Stress, daily habits, mental health—so many factors are intertwined. And if I convince myself that I won’t sleep just because I missed a walk, isn’t that counterproductive?
That said, I also felt a small sense of relief. Today, the rain had given me an excuse to take a break. I didn’t have to push myself to go out. In a way, I felt momentarily freed from the pressure of my own routine.
I wonder if the sun will be out tomorrow. Will I get to walk through the fresh morning air again? As I pondered these thoughts, I decided to take it slow today. And maybe, just maybe, it’s time to rethink the best way to manage my insomnia.
