A message from Barbara...

Summer is the perfect time to begin a practice of walking meditation. Let's face it, you want to be outside and yet you still want to have that special time with Spirit. We all know that the benefits of walking are well known for enhancing physical fitness. Combining a walk and the practice of meditation has the potential to provide us with a powerful Spiritual Practice. I once read somewhere that bringing awareness and relaxation into action can expand your powers of concentration and reconnect you to the simplicity of being, helping you to achieve a calm and balanced state of mind.

If you have a pet dog so much the better. He loves the exercise and reminds you to do this practice daily even more with his pleading eyes.

According to Jon Kabat Zinn, director of the Stress Reduction Clinic at the University of Massachusetts, “walking meditation brings your attention to the actual experience of walking as you are doing it, focusing on the sensation in your feet and legs, feeling your whole body moving. You can also integrate awareness of your breathing with the experience.”

Jesus told us that the state of “Heaven” is as close as breathing; therefore, what better thing to focus on to connect with Spirit. Take deep cleansing breaths to begin, inhaling fully to the belly. When the monkey mind wanders in, focus back on the breath.

I have found that using a mantra helps me. It can be something as simple as: “ God is Love. I am Love. All I meet are Love. We are One.” A four sentence mantra seems to works best in walking. If you are familiar with Reiki, you can simply repeat the four Reiki symbols as you walk. Again, when the monkey mind wanders in, put a balloon around those thoughts and simply watch them float away. Do not engage and argue with them. Simply let those thoughts float by, and then return to your practice.

To deepen your concentration keep your gaze in front of you. Walk with “soft vision”, but be aware of everything even the birds that you see. Your dog will help you with this. The purpose is to be in the present moment enjoying your special summer day. Be sure to smile. Soft eyes go with a smile. It may feel a little strange at first, but like anything else, “Practice makes perfect”. Give it a try this summer on the Mill Creek Trail, for example. Have fun, find your mindful awareness and live, for at least awhile, in the present moment.

Namaste,
Barbara