now is a good time to go for a walk (yes, even if it's snowing)

walking is a moving meditation

Now that I’ve gone into freelancing, I try to make it a point to take a walk every day. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and like my to-do list is never ending. Walking is a way for me to reset my intentions and ease up tension that builds up in my shoulders, neck, and upper back.

I love walking around my neighborhood. Even if I only can make it around the block, stepping outside is a great way to clear my head and become familiar with the place I live. It’s a good grounding meditation practice, since I can focus on the present with every step.

walking is a way to harmonize with our health

In “The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies” by Vasant Lad, walking is an integral part of setting a daily routine. Setting routines and following a discipline is the way to harmonize with your inner nature and understand your particular body, mind, and soul integration.

Being in tune with nature is a way to be in tune with your own nature. This is the “master to good health,” and walking around where you live is an easy way to accomplish that.

In his own words:

When you’ve finished your job for the day, go home and take a walk, alone, silently, in the woods, in the park, or on the bank of the river. Listen to the water, the birds, the rustle of leaves, the barking of a dog. In that listening, the meditative mind is regained.

In this way, every day becomes heavenly. Every day becomes a celebration, something new. That’s why the routine is most important. The discipline of the routine leaves room for awareness, openness, and freshness.

walk intentionally

Dress appropriately for your walk. Wear gloves, hats, scarves, and warm socks during the winter. Bring a water bottle if you’re planning on taking more than 20 minutes. Leave your phone at home or leave it on silent to limit any distractions. Let your mind wander and your path find itself.

Now go outside!