Tune into summer

Summer brings a different energy to it. Spring is for regrowth, for coming out of our cocoons from the winter, and for thinking of fresh new ideas. Summer is the time to build on those ideas as we feel motivated and full of energy. Summer brings the longest days of sunshine in the year (due to the tilt of the earth’s axis if you want to get technical)and its an opportunity to reflect on our relationship to nature and the growth within ourselves. Summer is the peak of “Yang” energy encouraging us to say “yes” to others and ideas and passions and well, fun.

For yogi’s, the summer’s energy encourages us to spend time in nature–maybe meditate and reflect–at the same time. Here is a short walking meditation to get you out and into nature and the bounty of warmth that is the Yang of the sun’s energy. And well, it’s also super fun!

Time required: 10 minutes (Chopra, 2018).

Find a place you can walk–it can be in the forest, on the beach, in town (as long as you have the space on the sidewalk) or anywhere you find yourself. You will be walking without music and without talking. The goal is to pay attention to your surroundings.

Before you start, stand still. Maybe close your eyes. Take a deep breath in and out. Are you standing tall? Does your body feel energized or tired today? Just note how you are feeling without any judgement. Breath your intent with an inhale–to notice the surroundings as you walk.

Open your eyes and take a moment to notice your surroundings. Observe what you see. Choose 5 things that you can see and say their names to yourself.

Smell the odors–good and bad– and try an figure out where they are coming from.

Listen to the sounds around you. What is creating those sounds? Take a moment to listen to the quieter sounds as well as the loud sounds.

Feel how cold or hot it is. Is there a breeze? Is the sun shining? Is there moisture. Just notice the senses.

Now it’s time to move! Lift up one foot and begin walking. As you walk at your normal pace, pay attention to your surroundings. Look around as you walk. Can you notice something you had not seen before?

Breathe. With each breath, notice how the air is entering your lungs–is it cool or warm? Notice the smells around you. Listen. Are the sounds changing as you move?

When you reach the end of your walk, take a moment to close your eyes and take a deep breath in and out. Think about the new things you may have noticed during this walk.

Mindful walking can help you connect with your body and your mind and with the beauty of nature. Were you aware of your muscles as you walked? Did you notice anything that you hadn’t seen before even if it was a walk you did regularly?? This is an opportunity to see your everyday world with a fresh perspective! Happy trails:)