Insights & A-Ha’s from the BIYH Summer Walk-On Challenge

This summer marked the 4th free walking challenge I’ve created and run, and every single time, I walk away (pun intended!) with new insights, new “aha” moments, and a deeper appreciation for the simple, powerful act of showing up for ourselves.

But if there’s one thread that weaves its way through every round of this challenge, it’s this:

There is nothing more powerful than the support of community.

When you’re trying to start (or even just stick with) a healthy habit, it helps so much to know you’re not alone. Not just for the accountability, but also for the energy, inspiration, and support that comes with it.

This time around, the BIYH Summer Walk-On Challenge brought forward some beautiful stories from participants that I just had to share. These stories aren’t about steps or streaks. They’re about connection, resilience, and showing up for your life – even when things feel hard.

Here are the 3 STORIES that truly moved me and captured what this challenge is all about:

1. Connection: Lori + her 3rd grade son

At the beginning of the school year, Lori’s son had zero desire to walk to school. But thanks to this challenge, they committed to walking together each morning – and something shifted.

It didn’t just become a new routine, it became something they both looked forward to every day. What started as a healthy habit turned into silly observations and meaningful morning conversations. 

It reminded me that sometimes the small things – like a 10-minute walk – are actually the big things.

2. Productivity + presence: Claire’s story

Claire lives with ADHD and has often struggled with creating routines that feel sustainable. But this time, she shared that walking consistently helped her feel more productive – not just in a “get stuff done” way, but in a calm, focused, grounded way.

There’s something about moving your body – outside, without a screen, no agenda – where suddenly your brain gets a little more spacious. More organized. It’s like the mental fog lifts and things start to click into place.

3. Grounding + healing: Nicole’s walks = free therapy

Nicole called her walks “free therapy” – and honestly, SAME.

She was going through some tough stuff during our Challenge and said that her daily walk became her anchor. A chance to breathe, clear her head, and process life in a way that felt safe and healing.

Walking gave her something to count on, a way to care for herself without needing to fix anything. Just move. Just be.

And sometimes, that’s exactly what we need.

So what does this mean for you?

If you’re trying to build or come back to a healthy habit, I want to remind you: you don’t have to do it alone.

Find a friend. Start a group text. Get your partner or your kids on board. Or join a community (like this one!) where you’ll be reminded, again and again, that small actions can have a massive ripple effect.

This walking challenge may be done for the season, but there will be more in the future AND you are more powerful than you think you are.

Whether it’s 5-10 minutes around the block or a longer stroll with your favorite playlist, know this:

✨ Your body will thank you.

✨ Your mind will quiet down.

✨ And you just might have a conversation (with someone else or with yourself) that changes everything.

Here’s to walking with intention, to you, and to the BIYH community.

xo –
Rhianne

PS – Want more of this kind of support and inspiration?

Come join my private Believe in Your Health Facebook Group for women – it’s where the real conversations happen. And if you’re not already on my email list, hop on! That’s where I share upcoming challenges, recipes, mindset tips, and all the behind-the-scenes goodness. 

Join the FB group and sign up for the newsletter here! Can’t wait to connect with you. 💛

Rhianne Berardi

This article was written by Rhianne Berardi — Integrative Health Coach, Yoga Teacher, Clinical Hypnotherapist, and founder of Believe in Your Health in Canton, MA. Rhianne Berardi helps smart, busy women achieve mindful weight loss with less force and more ease.

https://www.believeinyourhealth.com
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