Movement is an important part of personal well-being. It can also be one of your ways of letting go and allowing in meditation. Walking, with the intention of being in a contemplative space, is helpful for the whole human: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. You can focus on one specific thought or concern, or choose to just let go and be available.

Walking at a faster pace increases deep breathing which activates the relaxation response, calming the body and the mind.

Walking a labyrinth is another form of movement practice. A labyrinth has only one path which leads to the centre then back out the same way, with only one entry/exit point. There are many ways of using this tool. My favourite is to let go of everything in my mind as I slowly find my way to the centre. I spend a few moments in quiet, feeling the emptiness of letting go. As I leave the centre, I fill myself, receiving all that I desire and require in that moment.

There are labyrinths all over the world, especially found near places of worship. If you don’t know of one in your area, google will find the closest one for you. For use indoors with groups, or for those who are not able to walk, finger labyrinths are also rising in popularity, as small wooden or metal plaques on which the labyrinth pattern is traced with a finger or a stylus.

Header Image courtesy of Pixabay/BarefootPeace