Why I Walk: My 10K by 10AM Routine

For the past month or so, I’ve been lacing up my sneakers before the world fully wakes up and getting in my 10,000 steps by 10AM. What started as a casual commitment turned into something I now crave—my morning reset, my moving meditation, my way of anchoring into the day.

I work for myself, which means I get to design the kind of life I actually want to wake up to. One where I don’t rush, where the first part of my day belongs solely to me. I try not to schedule any calls, meetings, or events before 10 or 11AM. Those early hours are just for me – quiet, slow, and sacred.

The intention behind this routine wasn’t just about movement, yes, it’s a great way to get in an easy, low-impact workout and keep my body active without hitting the gym which ill do from time to time. But more than anything, it’s been for my mind. Walking helps me clear the mental clutter before the notifications, decisions, and to do’s come pouring in. Its where ideas flow. It’s where I check in with myself before checking in with the world.

There’s something so satisfying about knowing that by 10AM, I’ve already poured into myself. I’ve stretched, breathed, listened to my thoughts (and sometimes Jordan Davis tbh – this girl loves her country music), and put one foot in front of the other literally and figuratively.

The physical benefits have been beautiful, better posture, less bloat, and way more energy throughout the day. But the mental perks is what i love. Less anxiety. A clearer head. A softer start.

This routine has become a love letter to myself, proof that discipline can be gentle, that movement doesn’t have to be extreme to be effective, and that slow mornings are not lazy—they’re powerful.

So if you’ve been looking for a simple shift with a big impact, try walking. Early. Often. With no rush and no pressure—just you and the path ahead.