A few days ago, I mentioned an upcoming Gratitude Walk … and today is the day!
The sun will probably not appear much today; however, it will be warmer than most days this week, and we’re going to take advantage of that fact!
A gratitude walk is
an open-ended walk taken for the
benefit of mind-soul-body with the
intent of expressing gratitude
The simple act of walking holds great benefit for our minds and our bodies. Coupled with the benefits of expressing gratitude, it produces something even more powerful.
During a gratitude walk, personal expression is most likely be internal (although external is absolutely allowed!!). Whichever way, it is essential to articulate specific things for which you are grateful, even if only in your mind. That is the heart of the walk.
As we’ve mentioned in other activities,
there is no right or wrong way to do this!
At the same time, there are a few tips that may help it be more beneficial.
Your walking tempo will, most likely, reflect the pace of your thoughts. It may be slow and contemplative or it may be at a more regular pace. The former is best for reflection while the latter’s quick steps energize and feed one’s gratitude.
You may choose to walk in an area with lots of visual stimulation, or it may be on the sidewalks of your neighborhood. Perhaps it is both of those things!
Before you start, turn off your cellphone or switch it to airplane mode or even (gasp!) leave it behind. Crazy, I know, but that’s what we’re here for. We want to shake things up, to stir up fresh life and gratefulness!
During your walk, focus on your breathing, deeply inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth, perhaps raising your hands above your head to get the blood flowing. Feel the length of your spine, holding your head high with your feet firmly connected to the ground.
As you start to move, you can begin by
giving thanks for the ability to walk.
That is a powerful starting point. Jump off from there!
Maybe you start by verbalizing gratitude for specific physical abilities…
(“I am thankful for my ears that allow me to hear.”)
or material blessings…
(“I am grateful for a warm house where I feel safe.”)
or family…
(“I am thankful for my daughter because…”)
Your focus may start internal, then move external; or vice versa.
You may repeat yourself. That’s okay.
If negative experiences or difficulties come to mind, look for a silver lining.
Did it teach you about yourself or someone else? How did you grow through it?
Find joy today by fostering a spirit of gratitude as you:
Treat yourself to a 15-minute+ Gratitude Walk.
Embody gratitude to whatever degree you can.
And remember, there is always something to be thankful for.
Questions? Email fitnessatbodymoves@gmail.com or call 319-337-4777.
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