Thomas Moore , in his book, The Re-Enchantment of Everyday Life , calls for us to draw nature into our lives. A sacred experience of place is essential to our souls. We can restore inner health and peace by establishing places of sanctuary in our gardens and homes . But motion through natural areas affects us on an even more profound level. Scholars of archaeology and folklore have noticed that through history, various cultures have used the same travel routes at different times and in different ways.
Straight pathways called ley lines emerge from ancient British mythology.
The Chinese practice of Feng Shui determined the proper location of houses and other buildings based on geometry of the landscape. I have found inspiration, when walking outdoors, in considering all those individuals whose footsteps I follow. Ojibway hunters, European fur trappers, early colonists, Victorian farmers, and school children have helped wear paths along the Eramosa River. Sharing my day in history with all the travelers who have gone before, it is impossible not to experience significant spiritual energy. After all, pilgrimage has played an important role is many of the world's cultures.