The Secret to Mindful Walking

What if the path forward allowed you to just be? Mindful walking has long been practiced as a way to cultivate presence, clarity, and reflection through movement.

Mindful walking is a gift, allowing you to walk one step at a time, one breath at a time, opening to all that is present moment to moment. Whether you walk in a safe, pleasant place such as a long hallway, park, or Kripalu’s lovely labyrinth, you open your awareness to feel and watch as sensations, thoughts, and emotions pass through you like clouds in a big sky. With no need to get lost in reaction or judgment, you find your way to a presence that is a little more calm, connected, and resilient.

Step One

Before you begin, feel your feet on the ground, stand tall as you relax tension in the shoulders and posture, and receive a few full breaths in and out. If you wish, set a simple intention for your mindful walk.

Step Two

Walk silently at a slow, easy pace. Feel your foo steps and sensations in the body. Tune into your senses notice sounds, smells, sights, the feel of the air moving around you. Allow your open, curious awareness to be captured by all that is present.

Step Three

When your mind wanders off into worrying, pla ning or judging, no worries. Gently guide your attention back to your breath. This returning home to the present moment, over and over again, is the practice.

Step Four

Midway into your mindful walk or when you arrive at the center of the labyrinth, pause and notice what is present in your body, mind, and heart. Let this moment be exactly as it is.

Step Five

Continue on your journey and when you’re finished, pause to reflect on how your body and mind feel now. If you’d like, offer a ‘thank you’ for this gift of mindful walking.