The Reset Button Is Outside

It’s Friday. Most people are on their second flat white, I’m curled up with Lemsip, a box of tissues, and a very stubborn cold. But the universe had other ideas.

An old school friend tracked me down on socials and suddenly we’re catching up on twenty years of life, laughter, and, yep, some truly shocking fashion choices.

(Yes, there’s a mullet photo. No, I’m not deleting it. #fashionfailfriday)

Somewhere between the sneezes and the “remember whens,” I found myself sharing how I swapped office walls for muddy sneakers, fresh air, and the joyful chaos of wagging tails.

And then he hit me with the question: does all that outdoor time help people too, or just the dogs?

Short answer? Both.

Swapping spreadsheets for squeaky toys has been the reset I didn’t know I needed.

After the blur of new-mum life and the drag of office work, I realised walks aren’t just therapy for the dogs. They’re therapy for me too, even if today, my “walk” is just from the couch to the kettle.

Walking proof that outside time works wonders.

There’s something about stepping outside that just works. Five minutes of fresh air, trees moving, a bird chirping on the fence, it’s simple, but it resets you.

You breathe, and suddenly things feel a little lighter.

And then there are the dogs. They can flip your whole day with the smallest things, a wag, a happy bounce, or acting like your return from the letterbox was the best moment of their life.

Walks aren’t just exercise; they’re a chance to connect, share a bit of joy, and let their happiness rub off on you.

Even when you’re not at your best, a nudge from your pup or a goofy grin is usually enough to pull a smile out of you.

Life gets messy, literally. Between work, family, and everything in between, it’s easy to feel like you’re just going through the motions. That's when getting outside changes everything.

A walk with your dog, even just a quick lap around the block is enough to hit the pause button on a chaotic day.

And those muddy sneakers? That's proof you got out there.

Forget the polished, picture-perfect version of life.

Those paw prints and dirt splatters are a badge of honor, a sign that you were present in the moment instead of just scrolling through it.

The shoes will wash, but the reset stays with you.

Muddy sneakers: the real badge of honour for a good walk.

Your Friday reminder

You don’t need to quit your job or dig out a retro mullet to feel better. When the week feels heavy (or you’re stuck home with Lemsip), grab your pup and step outside.

Let the fresh air do its thing, your soul (and your dog) will thank you.

Got a throwback photo or a pup who’s your Friday mood booster? Drop it in the comments.

I promise zero judgement on bad hair.

Let’s kick off the weekend with a laugh, a bit of sunshine, and plenty of wagging tails.

Here’s to muddy sneakers, happy dogs, and the magic of fresh air.

Happy Friday, Tails Fam!