"Come on beta! Let's go for our walk." These are the words I have heard from my mother for as long as I can remember at 6 AM. My mother, a keen traveller, has always emphasized the medicinal and mental well-being benefits of going for a morning walk, no matter how long the duration.
As I stroll through the alleys of our local park, I can't help but notice a striking disparity: the number of men significantly outnumbers the women taking their morning constitutional. While I was aware of gender discrimination in the workforce, I'm dismayed to realize it extends even to such simple pleasures of life as a morning walk.
This observation led me to investigate further, speaking with several women about their experiences and reasons for not participating in this healthy morning ritual. Neeta Mathur, who rarely joins her husband for walks, explains the practical challenges: "Subah roz aaya nahi jaata. Sabke office jaane ka time hojata hai aur mujhe ghar sambhalna hota hai toh inn sab kaamo ke liye time nahi milta." (It's not possible to go every morning. Everyone's office timings clash, and I must manage the household, so there's no time for all this.)
Neeta's perspective highlights a common issue: the disproportionate burden of household responsibilities that often falls on women. Many find themselves caught between managing home duties and personal health, with the former frequently taking precedence.
Safety concerns also play a significant role in deterring women from morning walks.
Aarti, a student at Delhi University, shares a troubling insight: "It's also about safety. The groups of men who loiter in the park have literally frightened her off her feet."Aarti's experience is not unique. Many women face harassment or feel unsafe in public spaces, even in areas designated for exercise and relaxation. This fear can be a powerful deterrent, keeping women from enjoying the benefits of outdoor activities.
Another woman, speaking anonymously, elaborates on the intimidating behavior she's encountered: "They would get really, really, really close to me. It's one thing if you're yelling at me from across the sidewalk, because I can just be, like, 'whatever' and keep walking. But physically putting their bodies into my path or getting into my bubble when I don't answer or look irritated at.
This testimony underscores a critical point: the persistent lack of respect for women's personal space and autonomy in public areas. Such behaviour not only makes women feel unsafe but also infringes on their right to occupy and enjoy public spaces freely.
The disparity in morning walk participation is a microcosm of larger societal issues. It reflects ingrained gender roles, safety concerns, and the unequal distribution of domestic responsibilities. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach:
1. Raising awareness about the importance of shared domestic responsibilities.
2. Implementing stronger safety measures in public spaces.
3. Educating men about respecting women's personal space and right to feel safe.
4. Creating women-only walking groups or designated times for women in parks.
5. Encouraging families to prioritize health activities for all members equally.
As we work towards a more equitable society, it's crucial to recognize that even seemingly small disparities, like those observed in morning walks, are symptoms of deeper societal imbalances. By addressing these issues, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of gender, feels safe and empowered to prioritize their health and well-being.
(All views expressed are personal opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the stance of any organization or publication)
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