Mindful Walking
The aim of mindful walking is a way to help us reconnect with the present moment. By focusing your mind on the act of walking and the feelings associated, thoughts and sensations, you can bring your attention to the physical here and now.
Mindful walking is almost like ‘moving meditation’. It can be done anywhere, walking in a park, at work or around your home or garden.
In this particular practise your attention is going to be focused on your body and the environment. Even a few minutes can help to reduce stress and anxiety and increase your mental clarity.
Here’s The Process
✅ As you walk notice the sound and the feeling of your feet on the ground. Be aware of the natural rhythm that your steps make.
✅ Listen carefully to the sounds around you, the rustle of leaves, birds singing, a car horn, distant chatter. Start to simply notice things without judgement, rather than getting caught up in them.
The process will help to ground you in the present moment and almost instantly relieves any stress you might be experiencing. If you are not a person who finds it easy to sit quietly in meditation this is a great way to quiet your mind and improve your mood.
How About Noticing Specifics?
✅ Another process is to set yourself a task of noticing specific things. For example, 5 things of a particular colour, 4 specific sounds, 3 smells, as you walk. Again, you’ll focus on what is in your ‘now’ in your present moment.
Try and build this into your weekly routine as often as is practical. It is a powerful way to engage with your surroundings and can act as a stepping stone toward a more mindful approach to your daily life.