In the ever-evolving world of trends and challenges, there’s one that’s been gaining traction on platforms like TikTok, and it’s called “silent walking.” Yes, you read that right – silent walking, the art of taking a stroll without the distractions of iPods, music, or podcasts. It’s touted for its mental health and anxiety-reducing benefits, even being covered on the news!
At first glance, you might think this is a parody or a playful jab at our digital age, but it turns out, it’s a genuine trend – albeit, among idiots. Though I may find it a bit ridiculous, it does raise some intriguing questions about our modern society and its relationship with the most basic of human activities.
I can’t help but wonder how lost we truly are.
The Lost Art of Just Walking
Imagine a time when going for a walk was a simple and unassuming activity, one that didn’t require a trendy hashtag or viral challenge. For most of human history, walking was a part of our daily routine – a way to connect with nature, clear our minds, and simply be in the moment. It is also our primary mode of transportation. We didn’t need a TikTok trend to remind us to put away our gadgets and experience the world around us; it was a natural part of life.
In fact, some scientists even say that babies learn to do it. Through the act of “toddling,” many babies even become toddlers!
The Tide Pod Era
In recent years, we’ve witnessed some rather perplexing trends and challenges, like the infamous “Tide Pod Challenge.” This trend encouraged people to consume laundry detergent pods, believing they looked delectable. It was a stark reminder of how easily idiocy can spread and how some trends can lead to dangerous consequences.
The Cursive Revelation
Another trend that left many scratching their heads was the “write your name without lifting your pen off the paper” challenge. Little did they know, or care, that this was simply a skill known as cursive writing, something generations before our current one had already mastered.
The TikTok Effect
Trends like silent walking on TikTok have us wondering: Are we losing touch with our own history and the simplicity of life? It’s as if being constantly plugged into the digital world has made us forget the joy of just being. Perhaps these trends are a reflection of our need to reconnect with the basics and escape the overwhelming noise of the internet.
The Lost Art of Critical Thinking
As social media trends continue to shape our culture, it’s crucial to remember the importance of critical thinking and research. Falling into the trap of blindly following trends can lead to uninformed decisions and, in some cases, harm. While trends can be entertaining, they should never replace our ability to think critically and evaluate their validity.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the curious trend of silent walking and the questions it raises about our relationship with the simple act of taking a stroll. While it may seem absurd on the surface, it serves as a reminder that sometimes, trends can highlight our need to rediscover the basic pleasures of life. As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of social media, let’s not forget the value of critical thinking and the importance of being present in the world around us, without the need for a hashtag or viral challenge.
As they say, go “touch grass.” Until next time,
-Ryan
