Walking Meditation
It is said that prayer is talking to God, and meditation is listening for answers and guidance. Getting quiet enough to hear those answers is what most meditation courses are about.
In my Reiki classes, I teach several meditation techniques. Some focus on the breath, others use visualization techniques. But the most healing meditation technique I've found is walking in the forest on a regular basis, slowly and alone. (ok, I bring my dog).
Into the Woods
I go to the forest with the intention of letting go of all my daily “stuff” and totally focusing on nature until my own mind chatter stops.
And that's when the answers come...and in amazing ways. Sometimes it's, the “feel” of nature that transforms and uplifts my mood. Sometimes, I notice a bird, or watch a little insect busily doing it's “job” and I get a different perspective on life. Often an idea pops into my head, or I feel more courageous about an upcoming task. And there are times when I hear that small voice deep within myself.
While alone in the woods, I've allowed myself to skip, and feel childlike, or sing out loud, just for the fun of it. I've kicked leaves, walked on logs and yes, I've even climbed trees! I daydream. I feel gratitude.
Sometimes I cry. I cry out my frustrations, disappointments, anxiety and fears. And you know what? It works. I get answers and I get healing.
There was a time when I was feeling anxiety and depression. I began to walk in rhythm with my breath, inhaling for four counts, holding for four, then exhaling for eight counts. It's an exercise that is often used to reduce anxiety or ward off a panic attack. After a few minutes, I changed from counting, to repeating an affirmation. Perhaps I'd repeat, “I am ready to accept the health, joy and abundance that are mine to receive,” or “I am calm, I am peaceful.” And one day I realized I had created more joy, health and abundance in my own life.
Walking in the forest has taught me discipline. I've gone almost every day, for more than three years, even in the coldest, greyest days in winter. Watching the seasons change, and noticing how the plant and animal life adapt reminds me of how life goes in cycles. And when I see a deer just a few feet ahead of me, or a hawk perched straight overhead, I feel as though I have received a special gift.
The forest lets us escape from the constant bombardment of electronic waves from phones, computers, televisions, and other electronic devices. We need to feel our feet on real ground, not just the cement that covers large portions of our cities and neighborhoods and block us from natural earth energy.
Stress Relief - the Natural Way
So the next time you wake up feeling depressed, unable to cope with the kids, or feeling so stressed that you're ready to call the doctor for a pill, leave the kids with a friend for a half hour, or leave for work a half hour early. Turn off your cell phone, put on your sneakers, and go to the woods, the beach, or the riverside ...alone.
Take your spirit for a walk. Let your worries go, let your inner child out. Put your face in the sun and feel the warmth. Pray. Feel the wind, smell the spring, and listen to the sounds of nature. With a little practice, you'll hear the quiet voice deep within yourself...and you will heal.