Walking has been a part of my life since I began my spiritual journey. When we walk, we awaken to the world. We listen and become aware of the environment’s sights and sounds. Walking brings us to the present moment.
Many benefits come from walking, both physical and psychological. Each step we take fires off endorphins and alters our body chemistry towards the positive. We can walk off a bad mood and find things to be grateful for.
For me, not only does a daily walk help me stay healthy, but it’s also a source of creative inspiration. I use walking as both a creative tool and a way to maintain spiritual balance. Walking clears my mind and gives me new ideas!
Walking has given me a direct line to God; this has helped me connect to my higher self and my spiritual helpers, who act as messengers. I receive insights and hunches; intuition comes to me, and ideas that are not my own. Once I got into the habit of walking, I found myself consciously listening to the higher realms.
Walking has led me home to my authentic self. I have become aware of the thoughts I tell myself and have become able to distinguish between the truth and lies. I hear the emotions behind the words, and emotions don’t lie.
I realize this isn’t a new concept. For centuries, spiritual seekers and artists have used walking for quests and creative recovery. Walking has long been used to connect to the divine, whoever your higher power may be! Walking stretches our minds and spirits. I’m hoping that I can help you to see walking from a different perspective!
The most important thing to remember to make the most of your spiritual walk is: no dog, no cell phone, no headphones and no friends. This is an opportunity for you to connect to your thoughts and your “God.” I sometimes use it as a way to talk to God. I’ll ask a question before I set out, and most times, I return with an answer. We can use this time to listen, ask for guidance, air our dirty laundry, or express gratitude.
So, get on out there! Lace up your shoes and walk for 20 minutes a couple of times a week! Let yourself connect with the world around you. I promise you will return in a much better mood and optimistic about what life is all about! Above everything else, you will get to know yourself, and isn’t that what spirituality is all about? - knowing thyself!
One of my favorite quotes:
Walk as if you are kissing the Earth with your feet.
THICH NHAT HANH
Until next time…Walk – and especially walk if you don’t have time!