Be the Best You Can Be

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Everyone knows the value of walking. It helps your heart, your circulation and your tummy (a great calorie burner)

But here is something else for you to think about: why not use your walking as a time for meditation?. Most people start walking because it’s an excellent form of exercise, injuries are rarely experienced and there is no learning involved. Easy, easy, easy.

No expensive equipment necessary (great for your pocketbook). You just start walking and you are instantly on the road to better health. If you combine this with meditation, or mindful walking, you will find your gains to be priceless.

What is walking meditation? Walking meditation is when you consciously focus on your every step. No need to increase your speed, in fact, you will more than likely begin by walking at a slower pace so you can get the hang of the practice of meditating while walking.

When you focus on your walking, focus on how it feels as you raise your foot then place it back down, one step at a time. The practice of mindful walking has its roots in Buddhism, in particular the art of Ayatana. Christianity also has its version of walking meditation: walking the labyrinth.

Walking meditation helps you stay focused on the now moment. You will find your stress gradually disappearing as you become more skilled at the practice.

Many forms of meditation have the individual sitting with eyes shut, focusing their attention away from the outside. With mindful walking, the eyes are open wide, taking in the outside environment. This gives the walker an opportunity to detatch from the head noisy; a very valuable experience, especially for westerners.

Here are some general instructions for walking meditation:

* Walk in an area that you are familiar and comfortable with.

* Shoot for a 20 minute time period. If that is too long for you, start with a 5 minute period and gradually increase your time to 20 minutes.

* Start your walking in a relaxed but not a slouched posture.

* Concentrate on how your feet feel.

* Let your arms relax, down by your side.

* Gently focus about three to six feet in front of you as you walk.

In conclusion, it is very easy to incorporate walking meditation into your regular daily routine. Not only will it improve your physical well-being, but you will also be taking your exercise program to a higher level by improving your mind and spirit.

Enjoy your walk!!