“The mind can go in a thousand directions, but on this beautiful path, I walk in peace. With each step, the wind blows. With each step, a flower blooms.”
What path are you on?
Aimless wandering or wandering aimlessly?
Are you walking away from something? Towards something?
Each step...what does it mean? Or is it as simple as one step down, the other foot down, repeat. Simple, no need to overthink.
When you walk where does your mind go? What do you observe? Do you hear the sounds around you or have you drifted to a far off to Never-Never land. Or maybe it's a numb void and you can't recall where you've been during your walk.
Thich Nhat Hahn in "How to Walk" says you must take one step and feel your foot against the earth and not step forward until you are aware of your connection. Bring intention to your steps. Be mindful about your actions.
“Walk as though you imprint your solidity, your freedom, and your peace on the Earth.”
Without intention, perhaps it's just a walk and there's good in that. Yet it's a walk of peace if you bring your awareness to your steps and there's greatness here. Learning to be present on your walk; a gift you can give yourself.
Day 7. Peace tip.
Today, take the time to go on a peace walk. Be aware and don't let the walk pass you by. Look for signs of peace...maybe that's internal or perhaps external. Today, we intentionally slow things down.
Practice mindful walking with a simple mantra. Perhaps you repeat with each step... I - AM - PEACE. Or maybe it's something else. Using your voice will help keep your attention on your stepping.
Feel alive on your walk...
Breathe in the fresh crisp air of the winter morn or the salty, heavy moisture of the summer ocean air.
Listen to the crunch of the fallen leaves under your feet or the chirp of the birds.
Touch your surroundings....
Look for signs of growth, life, nurture and nature.
“Smile, breathe and go slowly.”
May your day be filled with peace...
~Christina