Mindful Walking and Self-Care
It feels like spring! The birds are singing, flowers are blooming, and the weather is perfect to be outdoors and begin an exercise routine. Walking is one of the best activities, and research shows that talking and walking with a friend is a wonderful combination and is encouraged to promote health and wellness.
But you can certainly reap the benefits of walking alone by walking mindfully; taking in all the smell and sounds allowing you to “create anew” and feed your mind, body, and spirit with fresh energy. Whether you walk the same path each day, or seek out new trails, mindful walking can make every walk different and special.
So what is mindful walking? It is simply learning how to focus and tune out the mindless chatter in your head and listen, smell, touch, and see as you walk. Here are some suggestion on walking mindfully.
- Focus on breathing into your stomach and feel it expand as you establish a rhythm as you walk.
- Be aware of the environment around you. The walks are wonderful on hiking trails, but a walk in your neighbor can create new experiences when you are intentional of being mindful.
- Prayer and positive self-talk can also be helpful for staying focused on your walks.
- Exercise and meditation are great for supporting good mental health. Practicing mindfulness while walking does not have to be a planned walk. Park away from the grocery store and tune into sights and sounds as you prepare yourself for shopping.
- If your mind wanders and you begin thinking about “what’s for dinner,” that is perfectly normal. Just harness your thoughts again and focus on the precious present.
If you would like more information about our Memory Ministry or Memory Cafe, please contact Vicky at vpitner@firstumc.org.