The Rhythm of Walking through Femundsmarka National Park

I set out to find the sounds which accompany me as I walk in Femundsmarka National Park in different seasons.

Walking is an important form of experience creation in natural areas. The different rhythms of walking become part of a reflexive process of learning about the environment and oneself. Walking is considered slow tourism that moves at a deliberate pace and gives the visitor more time to focus on flow, calm and contemplation. Slow tourism is less invasive than other forms of tourism and transport which could pollute the environment and, specifically the sonic environment.

Slowing down in the natural environment and actively listening to the soundscape inspires emotions and actions which influence how we relate to and connect to nature. Walking creates an awareness of one’s internal rhythms and the external natural soundscape. Join me for a rhythmic walk through summer and winter in Femundsmarka!

Noelien Wilsnach is a…