
Moments of stillness
Peaceful thoughts every step –
Nature goes with us
Copyright Francis 2022
Moments of stillness
Peaceful thoughts every step –
Nature goes with us
Copyright Francis 2022
Dankness of the day
A moment’s contemplation
Stillness in the mind
Copyright Francis 2022
Tall windows surround
the incense rising in clouds,
in morning’s stillness
Copyright Francis 2021
Observe the morning
sun bringing the world alive —
A still mind will see
Copyright Francis 2021
Cool mists are lurking
Bitter sweet sights of decay
Stillness of the lake
Copyright Francis Barker 2020
Reflective moments
Maybe thoughts will take me there
Clarity of mind
Copyright Francis Barker 2020
Inspirational and meditative 8 x 10 inch image for digital download on Etsy. Ideal for wall art and hanging.
Copyright Francis Barker 2020
Walking by its very nature can be rhythmic and relaxing. But is it possible to meditate at the same time?
Let’s be clear, one thing I have found is that a walking meditation is quite different from standard meditation. The latter requires you to sit comfortably and still the mind, to allow the excessive chatter of the left brain to dissipate and allow the more creative right brain to come into its own. You are allowing stillness and silence to enter your mind.
One of the best simple methods of standard meditation is to simply follow the breath, in and out, sensing the subtle changes of pressure on the nostrils. Your breathing will naturally slow down, your body will relax.
Whilst walking even at a relatively easy pace, depending on your level of fitness, your breathing will be deeper. Nevertheless, so long as you can maintain a steady pace, you can still concentrate on that breath.
My method is as follows:
Naturally, there is always the risk that you may come across people you know, so you may have to interrupt the process. If you are walking in a town or city, then naturally you will have to regularly stop, look around. Even so, you can still maintain a strong sense of mindfulness with the breath. Just like in general meditation, if you find your mind wandering elsewhere for whatever reason, just bring it back to the breath.
Be easy on yourself and enjoy your freedom. After a period of time you may find that this little space becomes restorative, a little ‘you time’. And don’t you deserve it?
* Always remain mindful whilst walking, be careful.
Copyright Francis Barker 2020
copyright Francis Barker 2020
copyright Francis Barker 2020