Walking Meditation – a simple mindfulness exercise to reduce stress

Did you know that your stress level decreases within half an hour when you go for a walk in nature?

This is due to the so-called terpenes, secondary plant substances that are responsible for the smell, flavour and ecological interactions of many plants. We absorb these through the air, which then stimulate our autonomic nervous system.

Try out the following meditative exercise on your next walk:

1. Take 10 slow, mindful steps.
2. Pause for a moment – what can you see, hear, smell and even feel?
3. When you have taken everything in, repeat this exercise as often as you like.

After the exercise, ask yourself without judgement:

• How did you feel?
• What did you see?

This exercise is best practiced in silence. If you would like to practise in a group, you are welcome to exchange ideas with each other afterwards.

Other healthy effects of walking meditation:

• Moves the body
• Decelerates
• Grounds (lowers Vata)
• Strengthens the immune system
• Brings fresh life energy into the body

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