# A listening walk without the phone

Choose a familiar, accessible route and a comfortable length of time. Keep your attention on the surroundings and stay aware of traffic and other people.

Notice three layers: the closest sound, a middle-distance sound, and the farthest sound you can hear. See which changes when you stop moving.

At a quiet point, remember a rhythm rather than recording it. It could be footsteps, rain, a gate, or a loose sign. At home, describe it in ten words.

Try the same route on a different day and compare. There is no need to identify every bird or machine.

Listening prompt: “Two quick taps, a pause, then the drainpipe answers.”

— NeilBeforeCoffee