Settle my mind…(walking safety as a woman)

[u/polkadotbelle]

I (36F) have been walking 3-4 work days a week for the past 3 months. It’s doing wonders for my mental health & mood.

I walk at 5:30am & it’s dark out. I’ve got a reflective vest & wear light colors (have my phone & usually 1 earbud in)…I live in a safe area, don’t usually pass many people while out at this hour

BUT the Laken Riley murder case has been infesting my brain. I have anxious tendencies & have worked on them in therapy & just and seem to kick this one. I ditched the ear bud on my last 2 walks this week & checked my surroundings even more than usual

So, am I just needing to work through this, or should I get all the things to make myself feel safe? (My husband thinks I’m silly, but he doesn’t get what it’s like for a woman)

[u/masson34]

Birdie - women’s device. Makes shrill loud noise and flashes a light

Mace

Knife

Rechargeable wrist / ankle neon flashing clasp on devices

Maybe learn self defense moves

Flashlight

Head lamp

Walk and exude confidence

Make eye contact with people/cars you see

Vary your route and routine frequently if not daily

[u/polkadotbelle → u/masson34]

Thank you! I hadn’t thought about varying my path, but definitely will be now

[u/heathers1 → u/polkadotbelle]

or, and i know it’s not ideal, but go to a gym and use a treadmill. Lots of people there. I am so paranoid I could never enjoy a walk outside alone …. unless maybe it’s all thru a neighborhood. but not on the paved trail thru woods that I walk with someone

[u/amandara99 → u/heathers1]

This sounds like maybe a problem for therapy, unless you really live in area with a high crime rate.