The Fresh Air Fellowship: The First Movement Link-Up

You are welcome to the first movement link-up. I am glad that we are all participating in this; please remember to add the code to your blog.

This week’s movement took me somewhere that always feels grounding, Loch Lomond.

The morning started quietly. The night before, I had worn my strawberry-patterned pajamas from Temu. The pajamas were soft, comfortable, and surprisingly warm when layered.

When we set out, it was cold, the usual kind of February cold. The air felt sharp, and you could see your breath in front of you. I had my thick jacket on, zipped up fully, grateful for every layer. February at Loch Lomond is beautiful, but it does not pretend to be warm. The landscape looks still and strong, the water stretching wide under a pale sky, the surrounding hills quiet and watchful.

The walk itself was long. Not rushed. Not dramatic. Just steady.

There’s something deeply satisfying about taking different pathways before finally reaching the loch. Each turn feels like progress earned. Gravel beneath my shoes, the rhythm of my steps finding their pace, the slight sting of cold air on my cheeks, it all felt like I was working toward something meaningful. And when the water finally came into full view, it felt like a reward.

Loch Lomond in February has a certain dignity. The trees are bare, the colors muted, the air crisp. It isn’t the lively summer version. It is calm, restrained, and almost reflective. Standing there, wrapped in my thick jacket, I felt both small and steady at the same time.

Physically, the long walk did what movement always does when we allow it to: it warmed me from the inside out. My circulation improved, my muscles loosened, and by the time I headed back, I could feel that pleasant fatigue in my legs, the kind that reminds you your body is capable.

Mentally, it was even more powerful.

Walking in cold, open air clears the mind in a way that indoor spaces cannot. The noise quiets. Thoughts organize themselves. Stress softens. Being near water especially has a calming effect; the vastness of it shifts perspective.

The entire experience felt like a gift to myself. Rest well. Dress warmly. Walk steadily. Take the long route. Earn the view.

That was my movement this week.

Now I would love to hear about yours.

Share your weekly movement below using the link-up. Whether you walked in nature, stretched at home, moved at work, or simply took more steps than usual — it all counts.

Let’s continue moving together, one day at a time. Remember, you can also add both link and photo below. 

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