Gen Z are obsessed with new trend of 'silent walking' that people say is 'game-changing'

Apparently everything has to have a name now and you can't even walk in silence in peace.

TikTokers are flocking online to weigh in about the latest trend to get Gen Z's all in a fluster.

You may've only just found out - and are trying to get over - the phenomenon of 'raw dogging' but prepare to make way for a new trend taking over the internet called 'silent walking'.

When was the last time you strolled along the sidewalk without being glued to your phone? (Getty Stock Images/ Tony Anderson)

The trend

In a trend 'unintentionally started' by TikToker Mady Maio, 'silent walking' is essentially what it says on the tin and is basically 'raw dogging' 2.0 - just not on a plane, but when you're walking along the sidewalk.

Not only do you have to walk in silence, but you're also stripped of your headphones, phone or anything else which could distract you from the beauty of nature - or the ugly concrete tower blocks - which are all around you.

A TikToker called Charlie Health took to her page to look into the 'trend' after having her 'For You' page flooded with the trend explaining getting rid of any technological distractions is basically meant to help you 'really focus on mindfulness and connection with our bodies'.

"It might seem boring and maybe even anxiety-inducing but it's actually a really great way to get in tune with what's going on in your body and improve your mental health," Charlie explained. "And the thing is, silent walking is more than just a trend, the research has shown that even light exercise when you're unplugged from technology really has a positive impact on symptoms of depression and anxiety."

She suggests trying a five or 10 minute walk to start, but just making sure your phone is left at home.

But does it actually work?

The reaction

Well, the results have been divided.

One TikToker pointed out: "This used to be the norm like 20 years ago."

However, another saw the trend and said they think it 'actually changed' their 'life'.

A third said: "I feel safer with no music! N more connected to what I’m doing, nature, sounds it’s beautiful!!"

Although, a fourth wrote: "It ain't 'silent walking' it's called walking, WOWZERS."

The term was reportedly coined for the first time by New York influencer Arielle Lorre back in January earlier this year who praised 'silent walking' for leading her to be able to 'smell everything' and 'hear everything' and being a 'grounding experience'.

"I know the hot girl walk had its moment. I’m trying to make the silent walk girl, or guy, or whatever, a thing," she said.

So, if you hadn't already been walking in silence already without it becoming a 'trend,' what do you think?

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