The ancient Mayans built a vast and sophisticated network of white roads (Post THE ANCIENT MAYAS AND THEIR WHITE ROADS. PART I), known as sacbeob, that connected their cities, ceremonial centers, and plazas. These paths, covered with a layer of white stucco, not only served as physical routes, but also had deep spiritual meaning. They were earthly reflections of the movement of the stars in the sky, a tangible representation of the connection between heaven and earth. The Mayans, expert astronomers, traced these paths in alignment with celestial trajectories, granting them a sacred value that went beyond their practical usefulness.
However, in the midst of this complex network of white roads, an intriguing question arises: why did the Mayans, who knew the principle of the wheel, never use it in their daily transportation activities along these roads? The answer, as we have explored, is deeply rooted in their religious and cosmological beliefs (1).
For the Mayans, the circle and the wheel symbolized the Sun, the source of life and energy that governed their universe. The Sun, represented as a circular figure, was a central element in their worldview, being venerated as the main god, Itzamná, or as Kinich Ahau, the god of the Sun in its most direct aspect. Using the wheel on the white roads would have been, in a way, a desecration of the divine symbol, since this would imply bringing the Sun, or its representation, into direct contact with the earth, where the dead and the forces of the underworld lived. This symbolic contact with the earth would have extinguished its divine light, reducing the Sun to a state of inactivity or death, which was inconceivable to the Mayans.
The white roads, for their part, were conceived as sacred routes, not only for the transit of human beings, but also as reflections of the paths of the gods and the stars in the sky. By traveling these paths, the Mayans not only moved physically, but also participated in a cosmic ritual, aligning themselves with the movement of the stars and the Sun. The absence of the wheel in this context highlights the importance of maintaining the purity of these roads, avoiding the desecration of the solar symbol.
It is possible to imagine that, for the Mayans, walking through these sacbeob was a way of emulating the movement of the gods and stars in the sky, an act of devotion that connected the earthly with the heavenly. The wheel, with its solar symbolism, had no place on these sacred paths, since its use would have distorted the divine nature of the path and its relationship with the cosmos. In this way, the decision not to use the wheel on the white roads was not a technical limitation, but a conscious and deeply religious choice, rooted in the Mayan worldview.
This analysis of the relationship between the white roads and the wheel in Mayan culture reveals how technology and religion were intertwined in a complex network of meanings, where each choice was loaded with symbolism and respect for the divine forces that governed the universe. The Mayans, by refraining from using the wheel, not only preserved their religious beliefs, but also maintained the purity and sacred purpose of their white roads, as routes for divine and human transit, reflecting the orderly dance of the stars in the firmament.
Walking is an ancestral act that connects the human being with the very essence of life. In a world where the wheel, a symbol of mobility and technological advancement, has transformed the way we get around, it is easy to forget the simplicity and benefits of a walk. The wheel, in its modern automobile form, takes us quickly from one place to another, but often at the cost of our health and well-being.
When walking, we leave aside the impersonal speed of the vehicle and immerse ourselves in the natural rhythm of our body. Each step is a heartbeat that connects us with the earth (Post WALKING WITH UNCHAINED PROMETHEUS), a breath that oxygenates our being and a moment of meditation in movement. Walking not only strengthens our body, but also clears our mind, offering us a break from the daily whirlwind.
Just as the ancient Mayans walked their White Paths, following the sacred trajectories of the stars, we can also find in the walk a path to inner peace and well-being. By choosing to walk, we choose a path of health and serenity, reminding ourselves that sometimes the most valuable journey is the one we take on our own feet.
I invite everyone to rediscover the beauty of walking, to enjoy nature, to connect with themselves and to remember that, although the wheel takes us far, it is walking that keeps us truly in touch with life.
(1)Loya Lopátegui, Carlos, La Rueda en los Mayas. Explorando un misterio ancestral, EMULISA, México, 2024. Version available on Amazon, Kindle Edition: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJV7151Y.
This Post has 2 fundamental purposes: Analyze what sugar represents for human consumption, and point out the benefits of walking regularly in order to prevent sugar-related diseases.
Characteristics of sugar: Sugar is a carbohydrate naturally present in many foods, but it is also produced industrially from sugar cane or beets. It comes in several forms, with sucrose (table sugar), fructose (fruit sugar) and glucose being the most common.
Glucose levels: Sugar consumption affects blood glucose levels, increasing its concentration quickly. This can have negative impacts on health, especially in people with diabetes, as it can cause glucose spikes that are difficult to control.
Beneficial effects: Sugar can provide quick energy to the body, which is beneficial in situations of high physical activity. In addition, moderate sugar consumption can stimulate the production of endorphins, generating a feeling of well-being and pleasure.
Malicious effects: Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain and obesity, as well as insulin resistance, a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Additionally, high sugar consumption has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as high blood pressure and heart disease.
Recommended consumption: Health organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), recommend limiting the consumption of added sugars to less than 10% of total daily caloric intake. However, in today’s diet, with the presence of processed foods and sugary drinks, following these recommendations can be difficult.
Sugar Alternatives: Honey, maple syrup, artificial sweeteners, and other natural sweeteners can be used as alternatives to refined sugar. These alternatives may offer benefits such as less impact on blood glucose levels, however, if consumed in excess, there are also risks and negative effects.
Impact on mental health: Sugar consumption can affect mental health, as some studies suggest it may be linked to an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Excess sugar consumption can also affect mood and concentration in some people.
Tips to reduce consumption: To reduce sugar consumption, you can follow some practical tips, such as reading food labels to identify the sugar content, avoiding sugary drinks, opting for natural and low-sugar foods, and reducing the consumption of processed foods.
Effects of sugar on physical performance: Sugar can have both positive and negative effects on physical performance. In small amounts, it can provide quick energy during exercise, but in excess it can cause blood glucose spikes that negatively affect long-term recovery and performance.
Ethical and social considerations: Sugar consumption also has ethical and social implications, especially in relation to the food industry and food advertising aimed at children. Excess sugar consumption can contribute to public health problems such as obesity and diabetes, raising questions about the responsibility of companies and governments in regulating its consumption.
Now, let’s move on to the 2nd purpose.
Walking every day can help mitigate some of the harmful effects of sugar on the body. Some of the benefits of walking regularly include:
1. Weight control: Regular exercise, such as walking, can help control body weight. This is important as excessive sugar consumption can contribute to weight gain, which in turn increases the risk of obesity-related diseases.
2. Improved insulin sensitivity: Regular exercise can increase insulin sensitivity, which helps keep blood glucose levels stable. This is especially beneficial for people with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.
3. Cardiovascular health: Walking can help improve cardiovascular health, which is important since excessive sugar consumption can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
4. Stress reduction: Walking, as with other types of exercises, helps reduce stress and improves mood. This may be beneficial since excessive sugar consumption has been linked to an increased risk of depression and anxiety.
5. Increased energy: Regular walking increases energy levels and reduces feelings of fatigue, which can counteract the negative effects of sugar on the body.
Walking every day can be an effective strategy to mitigate the harmful effects of sugar, especially when combined with a healthy, balanced diet.
Finally, walking can be beneficial in the management and prevention of various diseases, including diabetes, hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver, some types of cancer, and dental cavities. In these specific cases of morbidity, we can point out important aspects for each of them.
1. Diabetes: Regular exercise, such as walking, can help control blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.
2. Hyperlipidemia: Walking, aerobic exercise, helps reduce levels of LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol) and triglycerides, and increases HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol), which can help control hyperlipidemia.
3. Cardiovascular disease: Regular walking strengthens the heart and improves blood circulation, which can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as high blood pressure, coronary heart disease and stroke.
4. Fatty liver: Walking helps reduce fat accumulation in the liver, which can be beneficial in managing non-alcoholic fatty liver.
5. Some types of cancer: Walking regularly helps reduce the risk of developing some types of cancer, such as colon, breast and lung cancer.
6. Tooth decay: Walking can contribute to better oral health by promoting saliva production, which helps neutralize acids in the mouth that can cause tooth decay.
As an outstanding aspect, I would like to mention that regular walking can also help improve or mitigate the malignant effects of sugar on mental illnesses such as Alzheimer’s:
7 Alzheimer’s: Regular exercise, such as walking, can help reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Exercise can improve cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and promote overall brain health.
8 Other mental illnesses: Regular walking can also have positive effects on other mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety. Exercise can help reduce the symptoms of these diseases and improve overall mood.
Regular walking can be an effective strategy to improve mental health and reduce the risk of developing mental illnesses, including Alzheimer’s, especially in people who consume excessive sugar.
Overall, regular walking can be an effective strategy for improving overall health and reducing the risk of developing these diseases. However, it is important to complement exercise with a healthy diet (1), reducing sugar consumption and practicing other healthy lifestyle habits to obtain the best results.
Let’s go for a walk to help us from the effects of sugar.
(1)Loya Lopategui, Carlos, Flavors Diet. The Art of Savoring Food, EMULISA, Mexico, 2024. Version available on Amazon, Kindle Edition: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D42N64W7
The legend of Drummer Walker symbolizes the inner quest and journey of life. Each of us is like the Walker, choosing different paths in our search for meaning and purpose. The drums represent the constant rhythm of life, the universe’s heartbeat that connects us all.
This post is inspired by my long story titled “The Drummer of the Magic Roads”(*); but it is also a consequent of the 5th Principle or Principle of Rhythm, Compass and Cadence: Every individual has his own rhythm, Compass and cadence, he just has to discover them, apply them and maintain them while walking (Post RHYTHM, COMPASS AND CADENCE IN OUR WALKING).
In ancient times, when the world still resonated with the magic of the unknown, there was a singular being that wandered along paths of all kinds and throughout the world. This individual always kept a smile and had a special shine in his eyes, which conveyed complete happiness, and he invariably carried with him a drum that was said to be a gift from the gods. With his percussive sounds he guided people along unexpected and wonderful roads.
Every day, at dawn, he emerged from the shadows of dawn with a different drum in his hands; one day it was the frame drum, whose joyful and festive sound called to celebration and unity; another day it was the trench drum, whose soft, lilting rhythm inspired introspection and calm.
The people who listened to him understood this pattern, and they liked to accompany him (they began to follow him) on his marches (tours), eagerly waiting every day he passed to see which drum he carried with him to listen to its melodious and seductive rhythms. On days when the box drum resounded, the streets were filled with laughter and dancing. In the days of the djembe drum, people fell into silent meditations, searching for answers in the echoes of their own thoughts.
Because of this, the Drummer became a legendary figure, recounted everywhere as the “Drummer Walker.” It was said that those who followed him learned valuable lessons about life and the world around them, simply by listening to the message that each drum brought with it, and that it always transformed any path into a Magical Road, reinforced by its drums.
The legend of the Drumer Walker has endured through the ages, reminding us that although the paths we choose may be different, we are all united by the universal rhythm of existence. Symbolizes the inner quest and journey of life. Each of us is like the Walker, choosing different paths in our search for meaning and purpose. The drums represent the constant rhythm of life, the heartbeat of the universe that connects us all. Though our paths may be different, we are all united by this common experience of existing, marked by that universal rhythm that drives us to move forward, to explore and discover what awaits us every step of the way.
In his legendary journeys, the Drummer carried a single drum that he used to beat, according to the path he chose to walk and would convert into a Magical Road. Each drum had a unique sound and purpose. Each one of them was listened to with special and suggestive messages.
Without the Drummer knowing how, the drums selected (chose) themselves to accompany him; however, he was fully aware that whoever accompanied him on each journey identified with the type of magical road along which he would lead (guide) people along the path that had been chosen.
The most illustrious drummers that accompanied him, in his magical processions, were, and continue to be, the following:
The small drum, with its festive and energetic rhythm, guided people along the paths of celebration and joy, where laughter resonated among the trees and the dance became a tribute to life.
The frame drum, with its calm and contemplative cadence, led through the paths of introspection, where each step was an opportunity to reflect on the path traveled and the future. In those moments, silence became a wise companion, whispering secrets of the soul.
The tambourine, with its melodic histrionics, accompanied the walkers along the paths, creating a musical procession, where a true symphony of simultaneous rhythms was created.
The trench drum, designed to be played on the move, led followers down paths of action and determination. With its constant and energetic rhythm, it inspired us to overcome obstacles and move steadily towards the desired destination.
The box drum, with its powerful and energetic sound, marked the followers’ passage along the paths of strength and resistance. In those moments, the Drummer reminded them that, with determination and courage, they could overcome any challenge that stood in their way.
The djembe, with its deep, resonant sound, led through the paths of connection with nature and spirit. Under the shade of ancient trees and the murmur of crystalline streams, the Drummer taught the importance of being in harmony with the world around us.
This is a day that the Drummer will be accompanied by a Small Drum, and as his own spirit defines it, the person who goes out for a walk will be able to celebrate with joy and calmly enter into his positive thoughts. What are you waiting for to go for a walk?
(*) Loya Lopategui, Carlos, The Drummer of the Magic Roads, EMULISA, México, 2024. Available on Amazon, Kindle edition: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D5BJ3JH2.
There are 3 elucidations (*) that we present about peripatetics in Post CAMINAR AND THE PERIPATETICS, which emerge as principles (first fruits) of this system: 1) obtaining health, 2) the generation of ideas and 3) the transmission of knowledge, all while walking. We have stated: “Although in most translations of Aristotle’s works not much attention is paid to the teaching method he used in the Lyceum, Athens”, since he himself did not express it explicitly in his writings, I must point out 2 aspects that In my opinion, I consider that they coexisted in their traditional and inexcusable walks: the trees (Post WALKING WITH THE TREES; Future Post WHY DON’T TREES AND PLANTS WALK?) and the rays of the sun ( Post Futuro THE WALK-RWD SYSTEM AND A BATH OF SOLAR RAYS; In each of the respective Posts, in which I point out the importance of both trees and the sun’s rays with respect to the 3 mentioned elucidations, walking under the tree fronds and sunlight was a conscious source or semiconscious for Aristotle to generate ideas and transmit his knowledge.
(*)Quote from post : “It is interesting to investigate the purposes that led Aristotle to use this teaching system. The little or much that we clarify about this, in the future, will be very important. Undoubtedly (first elucidation) that in those times they knew what walking meant from the point of view of promoting the physical health of the body, but they also had the certainty (second elucidation) that the practice of walking caused the incontrovertible gestation and flowering of ideas, the stimulation and development of memory, fundamental aspects in the development of the field of creativity (ideas, memory, inspiration, imagination, etc.) and teaching and learning (third elucidation) always seeking higher thinking.”
Aristotle, as the first Peripatetic, taught in a somewhat different way than we are accustomed to today. His pedagogical method was based on direct interaction with his disciples while walking through the gardens of the Lyceum, a kind of park where he used to give his classes.
This approach was called “peripatetic”, which means “one who walks” in Greek, because Aristotle taught while walking with his students. During these walks, Aristotle discussed various philosophical, metaphysical, moralistic, social and ethical topics, encouraging his disciples to actively participate in conversations and debates (walking and talking).
During his walks, Aristotle used various forms of teaching, such as reading texts, group discussions, and conducting experiments and observations of nature. Its objective was to encourage critical thinking and reflection in its students, as well as transmit their knowledge to them in a practical and accessible way. And always walking under the foliage of the trees.
He had verified, for many years, that doing it this way, his disciples listened to him with greater pleasure, the ideas were better fixed in their minds and it caused them to generate more of them.
Acroamatism (**) was the most private and direct way to carry out these wanderings of knowledge. His oral teachings, through stories and speeches, under the trees, and always walking, were the ideal way to transmit his knowledge.
Aristotle pointed out to his students that they should walk alongside him, and not get too far away, to assimilate knowledge in an ideal way. He constantly repeated this instruction during his walks to all of them so that they would stay together and not lose any of his harangues and the comments and questions they asked him. It was a physical way to keep them in the middle, close to him so they could hear him. Later, as a result of this, it would be used as a metaphor: “In the middle is virtue,” and this phrase became a proverb to regulate the search for knowledge and appropriate behavior in all human activities.
In Greek, the idea of the “middle way” is expressed through the concept of “μεσότης” (mesotēs), which relates to the Aristotelian notion of finding a balance or moderation in the virtuous life.
In Latin, the phrase “In medio stat virtus” was used, which took up that proverb: “In the middle is virtue”, referring to the idea that virtue is found in balance or moderation, avoiding extremes. This phrase has been used by several classical authors, such as Horace and Cicero, to express the importance of moderation in life. Although this phrase “In medio stat virtus” is not a direct quote from Aristotle, it does reflect Aristotle’s philosophy regarding virtue and balance, and was used in later philosophical tradition to summarize these concepts.
Saint Thomas Aquinas, an influential medieval philosopher and theologian, also drew on Aristotelian ethics in his philosophical interpretations and disquisitions. The “middle way” defined in this phrase “In medio stat virtus” was used by him in his Aristotelian interpretations and disquisitions, which meant “Virtue is in the middle” or “Virtue is found at the intermediate point.” This expression effectively reflects a central concept in Aristotelian ethics, maintaining that virtue is found by seeking a balance, or middle ground between two extremes.
We have already mentioned this Aristotelian philosophical sense in Post THE PATH OF VACUITY, when we believe that: “This moderation is the qualification that must be available so that actions under the guidelines of the Mahayana or school of emptiness of Nagarjuna They are at the midpoint of human behavior, centered within the extreme limits of the human condition. Extreme actions are canceled as a functional demand of the Sunyata, however, if for some reason the “sunyatins” (adepts) had – or have – to relate to exaggerated actions or ideas, they can always cancel or avoid them, rejecting them. The Nagarjuna School flourished precisely because it responded to this moderation in demands and condemned the obligatory nature of behavior to exaggerated extremes; hence, he has included in his philosophy the Path of the Middle Way, or the Middle Center or the Middle Way (Madhyamaka). […]Nagarjuna’s instruction and teaching was a path that had to be followed rejecting extremes; this path had to be followed through the middle points, without touching the extreme limits of the human condition.[…] In everything related to the WALK-RWD system, we must avoid and eliminate all extremes, in such a way that the “walk” must be carried out along that middle path, between the extreme limits, and the 3 structured activities (reading, writing and drawing) must also be maintained on that path.”
An Aristotelian walker, ergo: peripatetic, means that individual who wanders on a path covered with trees, around a space full of light, and who does so by reading aloud, commenting on his readings and his ideas, and also writing.
Surely Aristotle and other people did know what trees emitted, which is why they used to walk under their shade.
Let’s find a path lined with trees and walk for 30 minutes, which represents only 2% of a day, and with this we will give our body 100% health, every day.
(**)ACHROMATIC: From gr. akroama: “that is heard” or “relating to the ear”; it was understood as what is heard with pleasure. It applied to the procedure or teaching that uses speeches, explanations or narratives to transmit knowledge, and always communicating orally. It applied to the most exclusive and private teachings that Aristotle gave to his favorite and special disciples. In its original meaning, it referred to the secret oral teachings of the Greek philosophers, which were transmitted orally and not in writing. Over time, the term has evolved to refer to something that is difficult to understand or that is reserved for a select group of people with specific knowledge about a topic, hence its synonymy with esoteric, exoteric and abstruse.
With this post we are starting the 7th year of the Blog.
This is Post number 5 of the series through which I am developing the topic of the New Paradigm of Human Walking in the future, which will be 9 in total.
In order to continue configuring its guidelines, its structure, the content, the characteristics and other aspects that will lead us to define the NEW PARADIGM OF WALKING, we will proceed to explain and define the phases that we must address in the coming months to achieve it, results that we will execute and show in the following posts of this series, and according to how we progress over time.
Since its origins, Humanity has gone through various historical stages, taking into account its natural activity of walking on the earth’s surface, namely:
GREAT STAGES WHICH HUMANITY HAS THROUGH IN RELATION TO WALKING
These stages reflect the evolution of the role of walking in human history, from its vital importance in nomadic societies to its rediscovery as an activity beneficial for health and the environment today.
1. Nomadism: At this stage, human beings were nomadic and constantly moved in search of food and shelter. Walking was essential for their survival and was done over long distances following migratory routes of animals and natural resources.
2. Sedentary lifestyle: With the development of domestication of agricultural products and animals, human beings began to settle in fixed places to cultivate the land and raise animals. Small human communities began to emerge scattered in the countryside. Although walking was still necessary for agricultural and transportation tasks, mobility decreased compared to nomadism.
3. Development of roads and trade routes: Over time, roads and trade routes were developed that connected different communities and regions, facilitating the exchange of goods and knowledge. Walking became an important economic activity and infrastructure was developed to improve mobility and connect communities dispersed in the countryside.
4. Urbanization and concentration in cities: With the emergence of urban civilizations, the population moved from the countryside to the city. Large masses of individuals were concentrated in hundreds of cities, where walking was the main means of transportation. These urban centers were built by providing them with urban equipment, such as the development of streets, sidewalks, etc., to facilitate pedestrian mobility.
5. Industrialization and motorized transportation: With the Industrial Revolution, motorized transportation emerged, which reduced dependence on walking as the main means of transportation in cities. However, walking was still important for short distances and recreational activities.
6. Megalopolis. The Great Metropolises began to emerge, starting in the 19th century but especially in the 20th century.
7. STAGE IN POSSIBLE APPEARANCE. Rediscovery of walking and sustainable mobility: In more recent times, there has been a rediscovery of walking as a healthy, sustainable and economical way of transportation (moving) Policies and projects have been promoted to encourage pedestrian mobility and create more walkable environments in cities.
8. STAGE IN POSSIBLE APPEARANCE. Return to the countryside: Mobility and migration of human groups settled in cities to the countryside (rural areas).
Taking into consideration this process of Humanity that has lasted around 2 million years, we must now define certain theses regarding the last 2 stages, which are probable, and taking the following points as a guide, to corroborate and quantify them through research that let’s do in the coming years:
1. Requirement for a future predictive study
2. Behavior patterns
3. Urban Perspective
4. Determination of repetitive walking patterns (individuals, groups, in the countryside, in the city, etc.)
5. Trends of human groups in terms of walking (within a period of 50 years)
6. Prediction of human behaviors regarding Walking. I) Regarding the most important general characteristics that must be considered; II) In terms of 20 and 50 years.
1.-REQUIREMENT OF A PREDICTIVE STUDY FOR THE FUTURE
To achieve the final objective, which is to define the new paradigm of walking, it is necessary to carry out a future predictive study on this topic, through attention to and compliance with the following requirements:
1. Trend analysis: Identify current trends in the field of walking, including emerging technologies, lifestyle changes, and urban and environmental developments.
2. Behavior study: Investigate current walking-related behaviors, such as frequency, duration, motivations, and preferences of people when walking.
3. Needs assessment: Identify people’s current and future needs in relation to walking, including aspects of health, accessibility, safety and comfort.
4. Socioeconomic impact: Evaluate the socioeconomic impact of walking in different contexts, considering aspects such as mobility, sustainability and quality of life.
5. Technologies and tools: Identify technologies and tools available or in development that can influence walking, such as tracking devices, mobile applications, and intelligent transportation systems.
6. Interdisciplinary collaboration: Encourage collaboration between different disciplines, such as health, engineering, architecture and sociology, to comprehensively address the various aspects of walking.
7. Consideration of diversity: Recognize the diversity of people in terms of physical, cultural and socioeconomic abilities, and how this influences their walking experiences.
8. Long-term vision: Have a long-term vision that considers demographic, technological and environmental changes that may influence walking in the future.
Strict satisfaction of these requirements will help design the predictive study that allows us to outline a new walking paradigm that is inclusive, sustainable and beneficial for Humanity as a whole.
2.-BEHAVIOR PATTERNS
Behavior patterns that must be analyzed for any predictive study.
Behavioral patterns are the trends or regularities in the actions, decisions or interactions of people in different contexts. For a predictive study, it is essential to analyze the following aspects of behavioral patterns:
1. Frequency: The number of times an action is performed or a behavior is manifested in a given period of time.
2. Duration: The length of time a specific behavior or action lasts.
3. Intensity: The degree or level of energy, effort, or emotion invested in a behavior.
4. Variability: The diversity or change in behaviors over time or in different situations.
5. Cyclicity: The repetition of patterns or sequences of behavior in predictable periods.
6. Context: The environmental, social, cultural or situational factors that influence behaviors.
7. Motivations: The needs, desires or goals that drive behaviors.
8. Consequences: The results or effects that behaviors have, both in the short and long term.
9. Adaptability: The ability of behaviors to adjust to changes in the environment or circumstances.
10. Interactions: The relationships and connections between different behaviors, people or elements of the environment.
Analyzing these behavioral patterns allows us to better understand how people act in different situations and how those behaviors may change or evolve in the future. This is essential for making accurate and informed predictions in predictive studies.
3.-URBAN PLANNING PERSPECTIVE
Now, let’s proceed to define the urban perspective within the future Walking Paradigm.
URBANISM will be correlated with some related disciplines, such as SOCIOLOGY, PHYSOLOGY, ANATOMY, or some subdiscipline or disciplinary fragment of them; whether they are oriented towards walking or related to the human being’s walk towards the future.
Hybrid bridges of new disciplinary approaches must be built with the aim of achieving the relationship between the participating correlated disciplines and reaching the hybrid proposal that solves and gives direction to the new paradigm of the human being’s walk in the future.
These bridges will allow a hybridization of disciplines or a fragmentation of urbanism; That is, it is possible that this bridge results in the creation of a new discipline as the sum of several specialties from other disciplines, or as the sum of other new hybrid domains.
Surely in the Domain of Urbanism we will find the sub-discipline that will have the greatest influence in promoting and conducting hybridization – with other disciplines and sciences – in order to revolutionize the multidisciplinary offer, to respond to the new needs of human beings in their journey. , for the future.
Now, what urban perspective should experts consider to make way for the new hybrid discipline?
Firstly, the tendency of Humanity to concentrate in cities must be carefully quantified and defined, according to the statistics on this urban concentration, stratified by city sizes. The statistical analysis must cover a period of years large enough to quantify the trends at the different levels that are defined. The perspective of Humanity towards the future, with respect to the same concentration variable, must be at least 50 years.
Secondly, the new physical and natural scenarios that will open up, in the same 50-year survey, must be explored, investigated and defined to accommodate that part of the population that will not go to the cities, and that will take refuge in those different living environments.
Thirdly, the other disciplines and sub-disciplines that manifest their flows of ideas and theoretical and practical models will have to be defined, to form the entire context of the new hybrid discipline.
Any configuration will have to be resolved in different stages and modulations; that is, over a period of time and through various direct communication mechanisms, whether through symposiums, formal meetings, special meetings, congresses, conferences, etc.
Based on what was stated in the 2 previous posts belonging to this series regarding hybridization and the definition of the new paradigm of walking, we arrive at the following predictions regarding what urbanism should contribute:
4.-DETERMINATION OF REPETITIVE WALKING PATTERNS (INDIVIDUAL PEOPLE, GROUPS, IN THE COUNTRYSIDE, IN THE CITY, ETC.)
To determine the repetitive patterns of walking in different contexts and groups of people, the following strategies and technologies were taken into account:
a) Individuals:
• Tracking devices: Use devices such as pedometers or mobile applications that record the distance, time and speed of each step.
• Video analysis: Employ video analysis techniques to study the biomechanics and movement patterns of each individual.
b) Social groups:
• Surveys and countryside (rural areas) studies: Conduct surveys and observations in different environments to identify the walking patterns of specific groups, such as people with disabilities, children, older adults, etc.
• Participatory mapping: Involve social groups in identifying and mapping walking routes and points of interest in their environment.
c) In the countryside (rural areas):
• GPS and GIS: Use GPS and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology to map and analyze walking patterns in rural environments.
• Ethnographic studies: Conduct ethnographic studies to understand cultural and traditional walking patterns in rural communities.
d) In the city:
• Urban sensors: Install sensors in urban areas to collect data on pedestrian movement and walking patterns.
• Transportation data analysis: Use public and private transportation data to infer walking patterns in different types of cities.
These strategies and technologies can help you determine repetitive walking patterns in various contexts and social groups, allowing you to design more effective interventions and policies to promote sustainable and healthy mobility.
5.-TRENDS OF HUMAN GROUPS REGARDING WALKING (WITHIN 20-50 YEARS)
Some current trends and possible future evolutions in terms of walking, with a horizon of 20 and 50 years, to improve this activity in architectural and urban areas:
Current trends (20 years):
1. Pedestrian infrastructure: Greater investment in wide, safe and accessible sidewalks, with inclusive design for people with reduced mobility.
2. Green spaces: Greater integration of green areas and parks in urban environments, promoting attractive and healthy pedestrian paths.
3. Active mobility: Promotion of policies and programs that promote active mobility, such as walking and cycling, as alternatives to using the car.
4. Wearable technology: Increased use of wearable technology to track and enhance the walking experience, including physical activity tracking devices and augmented reality for navigation.
5. People-centered urban planning: Focus on urban design centered on the needs of people, with well-designed pedestrian streets, plazas and community spaces.
Future trends (50 years):
1. Walkable cities: Greater expansion of walkable cities, where traveling on foot is the most convenient and pleasant option.
2. Smart infrastructure: Integration of smart technologies into pedestrian infrastructure, such as smart traffic lights and dynamic signage.
3. Interconnected roads: Development of networks of interconnected roads that facilitate travel on foot between different areas of the city.
4. Biomimetic design: Use of biomimetic principles in urban design, inspired by nature to create healthier and more sustainable environments.
5. Culture of walking: Greater awareness and appreciation for the activity of walking, with educational and cultural programs that promote its benefits.
These trends suggest a future where walking becomes a central activity in urban design, promoting health, sustainability and quality of life in cities.
6.-PREDICTION OF HUMAN BEHAVIORS REGARDING WALKING.
6.I) REGARDING THE MOST IMPORTANT GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS THAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED
The prediction of future human behaviors regarding walking will be influenced by several important characteristics that must be considered in order not to fail regarding the future legal provisions that must be included in the New Walking Paradigm, namely:
1. Collaboration and citizen participation: Greater collaboration and citizen participation in urban planning related to walking is expected, which will require legal provisions that promote public consultation and community participation in decision-making.
2. Road safety: There will be an increased demand for pedestrian road safety measures, such as safe pedestrian crossings, adequate signage and reduced traffic speeds, which will require stricter regulations and their effective enforcement.
3. Right to public space: Greater recognition of pedestrians’ right to public space is expected, which will involve the implementation of regulations that limit motor vehicle access in certain areas and promote the creation of pedestrian zones.
4. Shared responsibility: Future walking behaviors will be more oriented towards shared responsibility between pedestrians, drivers and authorities, which will require legal provisions that promote mutual respect and peaceful coexistence in public spaces.
5. Flexibility and adaptability: Regulations related to walking must be flexible and adaptable to changes in society and technology, in order to respond effectively to the needs and demands of the constantly evolving population.
These characteristics are fundamental for the design of legal provisions that promote walking as a safe, healthy and sustainable activity in the future, thus contributing to the creation of more livable and pedestrian-friendly urban environments (Future Post PROVISIONS AND REGULATIONS IN THE NEW WALKING PARADIGM. PART VIII of IX).
6.II) PREDICTION ON THE REDISCOVERY OF WALKING AND ON THE RETURN TO THE COUNTRYSIDE (RURAL AREAS)
In the next 20 and 50 years, the stage of rediscovery of walking and the promotion of sustainable mobility (Stage 7) and the Return to the Countryside (Stage 8) could develop as follows:
NEXT 20 YEARS:
A) IN THE CITIES
1. Improved pedestrian infrastructure: Greater investment is expected in wide, safe and accessible sidewalks, as well as in the creation of pedestrian zones and shared streets in cities.
2. Technology for pedestrian mobility: Mobile applications and wearable devices that encourage walking will be developed and popularized, providing information on safe, healthy and attractive routes.
3. Pedestrian-friendly urban policies: Cities will adopt policies that prioritize walking, such as implementing low-emission zones and restricting motor vehicle access in urban areas.
4. Culture of active mobility: Greater awareness of the health and environmental benefits of walking will be promoted, promoting educational programs and awareness campaigns.
5. Integration with other modes of transportation: Connections between walking and other modes of public transportation, such as buses, trains and bicycles, will be improved, facilitating multimodal travel.
B) IN THE COUNTRYSIDE (RURAL AREAS)
New planning should be carried out in the countryside (rural areas), focusing on walking as a fundamental means of transportation.
To plan these imminent long-term migrations of human groups to rural areas, with walking as a fundamental activity, it is necessary to consider the following essential aspects at an international and global level.
i) Technical, economic and social policies:
• Establish tax incentives for companies that establish themselves in rural areas, creating employment and reducing migration.
• Implement comprehensive rural development programs that include access to basic services such as health and education.
ii) Technical, economic and social guidelines:
• Create investment funds for pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure projects in rural areas.
• Establish efficient and accessible rural public transportation systems to reduce automobile dependency.
iii) Urban structure and environment:
• Design rural communities with sustainable infrastructure and green spaces that encourage walking and outdoor living.
• Implement environmental protection and natural resource management policies in rural areas.
iv) Characteristics to consider about Artificial Intelligence:
• Use AI systems to optimize pedestrian and bicycle routes, guaranteeing the safety and efficiency of non-motorized transportation.
• Implement AI-based environmental monitoring technologies to preserve biodiversity and natural resources in rural areas.
v) Legal regulations on technological and social aspects of walking:
• Establish regulations that regulate the use of autonomous vehicles in rural areas, prioritizing the safety of pedestrians and cyclists.
• Implement laws that promote shared responsibility for road safety, involving drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.
vi) Other relevant aspects:
• Promote the creation of networks of trails and pedestrian tourist routes that promote sustainable tourism in rural areas.
• Promote local production and consumption to strengthen the rural economy and reduce the carbon footprint associated with food transportation.
Of course, each region in the world and each country must carry out specific planning that will require a detailed analysis of each particular case, but always respecting global policies and guidelines.
These proposals are intended to promote balanced and sustainable rural development, where walking is a central activity in people’s daily lives.
NEXT 50 YEARS:
A) IN THE CITIES
1. Completely walkable cities: Cities are expected to be designed primarily for pedestrians, with urban infrastructure that prioritizes walking over other modes of transportation.
2. Advanced technology for pedestrian mobility: Advanced technologies, such as augmented reality systems and intelligent personal assistants, will be developed to improve the walking experience and safety of pedestrians.
3. Integrated urban policies: Cities will implement comprehensive policies that promote sustainable mobility, including the creation of green spaces and the reduction of motorized traffic.
4. Cultural shift towards active mobility: Walking will become the dominant form of travel in cities, with an ingrained culture of active and healthy mobility.
5. Revaluation of public space: Priority will be given to public space for pedestrians, with streets, squares and parks designed to promote social interaction and the well-being of the community.
B) IN THE COUNTRYSIDE (RURAL AREAS)
New planning should be carried out in the countryside (rural areas), focusing on walking as a fundamental means of transportation.
In the same way as within 20 years, we must make plans to guide imminent migrations towards rural areas that contemplate the following core aspects, at a widespread level in the countryside.
i) Technical, economic and social policies:
• Promote economic incentives for rural life, such as subsidies for housing and basic services.
• Implement training and employment programs in rural areas to guarantee the labor integration of migrants.
• Develop rural public transportation policies that encourage the use of walking and cycling.
ii) Technical, economic and social guidelines:
• Promote economic diversification in rural areas to create employment opportunities.
• Establish regulations for the construction of safe and accessible pedestrian infrastructure.
iii) Urban structure and environment:
• Design compact, walkable rural communities that encourage social interaction and physical activity.
• Implement sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
iv) Characteristics to consider about Artificial Intelligence:
• Implement AI technologies to improve the efficiency of rural public transportation and pedestrian safety.
• Use AI to predict migration patterns and plan rural development in advance.
v) Legal regulations on technological and social aspects of walking:
• Establish regulations that protect pedestrians and promote road safety in rural areas.
• Regulate the use of personal mobility technologies, such as electric scooters, to guarantee coexistence with pedestrians.
vi) Other relevant aspects:
• Promote road safety education and awareness about the benefits of walking for health and the environment.
• Promote community participation in the planning and design of walkable public spaces.
Notwithstanding these constructive ideas of a new model of habitability and “walkability” in rural areas, each region and country must carry out specific planning that will require a detailed analysis of each local and regional context.
These action formulas for the generation of new plans (recommendation meditations reflections contemplations speculations) suggest a future where walking becomes the main mobility activity both in cities and in the countryside, promoting health, sustainability and quality of life of citizens.
DESIGN OF VARIOUS THESES BASED ON THESE ASSUMPTIONS, IN ORDER TO PROCEED TO CARRY OUT THE DEFINITIVE PREDICTIVE STUDY
In the immediate future we will propose several theses taking into consideration what has been determined about walking patterns in order to carry out the definitive predictive study and validation of the same theses and the assumptions that we have made for the next 20-50 years, both in cities as in the countryside.
Let’s think of a new conformation for the COUNTRYSIDE (RURAL AREAS) of the future. In the meantime, let’s walk every day.
