Sometimes when I walk long distances, like last summer when I walked just under 36 miles in 8 and a half hours, I achieve this mild state of disconnection or a mediative like state. Maybe it was a state of connection rather than disconnection. I don’t know, it happens, I like and let it happen. 

What happens is my mind gets extremely clear and focused and I do some of my best thinking in this state. I solve business problems, enter an ultra-creative state or get crystal clear clarity on issues that I’ve been wrestling with during the day. I’m not trying to get all, cumbiyah-ish, it’s just something I’ve noticed when walking for long periods of time and occasionally get to this place when walking. 

This article interesting from Health and Yoga, “How to Meditate?”

There are two types of meditation – active and passive.

Active meditation relates to activities of everyday life such as walking, working, eating etc.
This in fact is the aim of Yoga, to experience a meditative state in everyday life which has the effect of increasing performance manifold as the work is done with more efficiency and energy.

To achieve active meditation, passive meditation is required which involves taking time out to be seated and perform Meditation Techniques or practices. This is called passive as it involves withdrawing ourselves in calm, sitting postures to achieve a meditative state that can help us in our active life.

The aim of all passive meditation techniques is to still the mind from wavering and distracting thoughts and gradually make it one pointed.

Passive Meditation Techniques though of many kinds, essentially have the same modus operandi:

Stage 1: Introversion: Involves seating postures and awareness on an object. This has the effect of calming the mind and making it ‘receptive’ to see what’s inside.

Stage 2: Introversion leads to the free flow of thoughts, visions, complexes, memories etc. from the lower mind. Our passions, fears, doubts and desires arise and we are now in a position to observe these and remove the undesirable content from our minds forever.

Stage 3: Having observed the lower mind, we are now in a position to explore the subconscious realms. It is here that real meditation begins. Our limitless storehouse of energy and knowledge starts manifesting itself.

Stage 4: Self realization: As these stages are transcended, supreme bliss is attained.

 

For me, walking, has become some of the most important moments, I need this time to refresh and rejuvenate my mind and body. As I walk, I let go of the world for an hour or two, I step and step and step, listening to my inner rhythms. Give it a try. My mini vacation from the world, six days a week, one or two hours at a time. 

Maybe this is what we are all missing, in our daily busy lives?

MikeZ_walking in a state.

Please consult your physician before starting any exercise or weight loss program.
Your physician is your very best resource.