Moving Mediation Field Guide for Creating More Peace in Your Day

How can we enjoy zen and maintain our spiritual self-care and daily mindfulness?

A day represents the microcosmos of your entire life, so it's important to make mindfulness a habit to live your life to the fullest each day.

It is here, living amongst oak-studded hills, that my ritual of walking meditation begins. Life in the country has a way of slowing you down. There is a stillness in the air, a soft light as it brushes the trees with rolling hills, pastures, vineyards and open sky for miles upon miles. All that can be heard are the occasional hawks soaring overhead. 

As we set out for our daily walk (my 4 fur babies), I feel "light," knowing there is no destination, simply a romp in nature beneath the gentle light of the ever-present sun. Each step leads to a letting go of any needs or to-do lists.

It feels as though my feet once in motion find a pace all their own – there is no effort being made, simply breathing in the fresh, dry air. The sound of the road base beneath my feet is a familiar one and reminds me of summer day hikes in the Sierras.

​As we reach the far end of the property, the shade is a welcome respite for the dogs and myself. We find a smooth patch of grass to linger, dream and soak it all in. 

As we begin to make our way back to the ranch house, creative plans and visions seem to appear from out of nowhere. 

Even if for only a little while, stepping away from the mundane and daily repetition of work and plugging into nature is a reset for the mind, body and spirit. 

Walking in nature allows us to shift our focus away from distractions and instead find reverie. In this heightened state of presence, we become more self-aware, and we can establish a deep sense of peace and clarity. 

Oftentimes 15 minutes is all we need for a reset, so I hope you'll join me in moving your body!

Moving Meditation Field Guide

• Leave your worries at the door.
• Find a quiet, beautiful spot in nature.
• Start by engaging all your senses as you walk.
• Do not have an agenda.
• Simply become more aware of your body in its present state.
• Observe your feet as they land on the earth.
• Follow the breath and begin to deepen it.
• Notice the smells and the quality of the air.
• Listen to the sounds around you.
• Enjoy the time you spend moving your body and being connected to nature.

"If you seek creative ideas, go walking. Angels whisper to a man when he goes for a walk." ~ Raymond Inmon