What is Mindful Walking?

When you walk, how do you walk?

Often we rush, ear glued to mobile phone. Look around at how many people are wearing headphones, it’s almost as if we can’t just ‘be’ as we walk – we feel the need to multi-task.

Well, what if you did nothing when you walked? Nothing, that is, except noticing your surroundings. Noticing your body’s movement, the sound of birds, the thoughts that come to your mind, the sky. Just walk and observe. In a hectic news-saturated world, sometimes just switching off is the most powerful thing you can do. And walk. Not drive. But use your legs and appreciate the summer weather. You see a lot more of your neighbourhood when you walk. Exploring, running errands, or just sight-seeing in your own town, going for a walk is free and one of the best forms of exercise you can do.

Even better if you can use it as a bit of brain downtime. Mindful walking is a bit like meditating on the move. Technically you need to sit still to meditate (I’ve asked monk Gelong Thubten whether it is possible to meditate when running and he answered most certainly not, as you might bump into a tree). So it’s not meditation, but simply just letting your mind rest in the present. Appreciate the feel of the wind, the sound around you and the ‘essence’ of the day. The Botanic Gardens is a wonderful place to meander and gaze at the changing season.

However even a mundane walk to the local shop can be more interesting if you pay attention. I like the idea that walking through a landscape somehow connects us. We notice more, and it’s good for the blood pressure. It’s true, if you’d like to lower your blood pressure and stress levels, going for a walk is one of the best things you can do.

Navigate towards a greenspace and have a perambulation in the park. Just try it, you’ll feel better for it. If you’re already a mindful walker, feel free to put your phone down and go for a wander…

Personal Trainer Tracy Griffen incorporates walking into many exercise programmes (depending on fitness levels) and encourages people to walk rather than drive, especially in busy urban areas. Contact her for more information on how you can use walking for fitness.