One phrase anyone seeking mental health help has heard over and over again is, “Try meditation!”
This is a very well-intentioned emotion, but when your thoughts are racing and you feel like your mind is betraying you, the idea of sitting with your thoughts or sitting still and emptying your mind is next to impossible. is.
That being said, meditation is good for your mental health.
In fact, a 2022 study found that meditation was as effective as chronic exposure therapy in reducing PTSD symptoms and depression, and more effective than PTSD health education.
So what does this mean for those of us who have yet to take advantage of this practice?
According to the experts at Go Outdoors, you should try “walking meditation.”
What is walking meditation and how do you do it?
While meditating while awake sounds almost counterproductive, says Natalie Byrne of Go Outdoors:
“Being in nature is a natural stress reliever, and outdoor activities such as walking provide endorphin-releasing exercise that improves mood and reduces symptoms of depression.”
To get you started on this new way of wandering, Byrne offered some advice for getting into the swing of walking meditation.
- Find a quiet space: Choose a place where you can walk without being disturbed, preferably in nature or in a quiet environment.
- Setting intent: Decide on the purpose of the exercise. This can focus on mindfulness, relaxation, or any other purpose that suits the moment.
- Start walking slowly. Take slow, deliberate steps, synchronizing your breathing and movements. Notice how your feet feel as they lift, move forward, and touch the ground again.
- stay in the present: While walking, be fully present in the moment. Maintain awareness of your surroundings, body, and breath, and gently bring your attention back if it wanders.
- Reflect and close: When you are ready to end your walking meditation, gradually slow down and stop.Take a moment to reflect on your experience and return to your daily activities with an attitude of gratitude.
Byrne adds, “Remember that walking meditation is a practice, and it’s okay if your mind wanders or you find it difficult to stay focused. The key is patience, candor, and self-care.” Approach it with compassion for yourself.”
With summer approaching, it might be the perfect time to get your hands on one.
