How to Practice Walking Meditation

             Learning how to practice walking meditation requires practice but the meditative approach is well worth the effort. There are a couple strategies people use when engaging in mindful walking that make the exercise very effective. A meditative stroll helps the mind and the body to find balance.
             When we think of meditation, we typically imagine a person postured in a sitting position with intense focus. No movement is apparent. In fact, movement may appear to be a disturbance of the meditative process. Walking meditation uses motion and contact with surroundings as a vehicle for trance.
Barefoot Meditative Walking

            Those who want to learn how to practice walking meditation may be a little surprised to find that one approach involves going barefoot. This may be a source of stress for some people. Worrying about stepping on a sharp object or an insect can interrupt the meditative flow.
             Apprehensions aside, many proponents of meditative walking recommend the barefoot approach. This is because the sensations in feet create a deep connection between the person walking and the earth. The sensory experience engages the mind and body in conjunction with the soil.
Preparing for Barefoot Walking

             Preparing for barefoot walking meditation begins with setting a route to follow. Simply examining the paths that you would like to take on a regular basis is an excellent way to become familiar with the process. Practice is very important with this exercise.
              Walking barefoot can make some people feel unbalanced but creating effective balance is part of the process. If walking outside is a little overwhelming, begin practicing indoors. It is important to be mindful in the practice and to visualize as you take each step.
              Barefoot hiking requires some preparations and it may not be for everyone. However, a well-selected route can offer an excellent opportunity for you to feel one with nature in the meditative process.
Breathing

                Breathing is an important aspect of walking and meditating. When walking outdoors, try to engage in the activity in early morning hours or late in the evening when the air is crisp and clean. Mindful walking with breathing exercises, like barefoot walking, does take practice.
                The first step is to become aware of your breathing. Most breaths we take go unnoticed but each is essential in nurturing the body. Walking gives an opportunity to use each step to build an awareness of each breath you take as you move along. Some suggest that it is best to carry a slight smile on your face to improve mood as you walk, breathe and meditate.
               Creating a rhythm that combines breaths, steps and words is a great approach in the meditative process. Select a favorite mantra that has deep meaning for you in the pattern. After getting the rhythm in sync, begin visualizing as you move.
              Focus during walking meditation should be on breathing, visualization, mantra and movement. As these elements are practiced, awareness of your surroundings heightened. It is as if the walker is aware of nothing and everything all at once.