Never miss an opportunity to step out even if you know the sun is dropping in the sky. The magic of the light as this happens is special and the smells, sounds and sights are magnified as nature prepares to rest for the night. You can always take a headtorch with you, if like me, you want to take the opportunity to watch the sunset.
On an evening walk it is important to literally see things in another light. Often there is a golden glow or in some areas you can see a pink hue – something I never tired of when I lived in the Alps.
This light is great for picking up features on the plants like these pussy willows which are revealing every detail in the low evening glow.
It also brings out the smells of blossoms like the gorse which has basked in the heat of the day, releasing its coconut fragrance and tempting me to risk the prickles to gather some more flower heads to dry for teas – they add a zing to most mixes as they retain their yellow colour but they do have little hairs in so are best brewed in a infuser or eco tea bag. I generally leave them on some kitchen paper to allow any little bugs to crawl out safely too.
If you have time to take a seat and reflect on your day, you will be rewarded by wildlife also aware that night is drawing near. Note how birdsong changes as they communicate and maybe gather for the night in their roosts. Starlings and rooks tend to gather on mass, the former known for their displays in autumn and winter before they settle. Sit quietly and you may be lucky enough to see the nighttime species, dusk is great for spotting barn owls as they survey water courses in search of voles. This flash of white will brighten any evening walk.
As I sit in my favourite spot, I often see Deer pottering about and I practice breathing drills as I wait to see if the Badgers might make an appearance (they rarely do although I know their sett is nearby) I also listen to the scuttering of small creatures in the hedgerows and the calling of spring Lambs and their Mothers as they ensure they are close to each other as the light begins to fade.
As I say goodbye to sun, I know I can return home having exercised my whole body by using my poles, connected with nature and the seasons and even taken some time to relax and unwind. As I turn for home, I might even be lucky enough to see some stars and the moon. A perfect end to any day!
