Walking Zen

Walking Zen gives rise to the unique experience of remaining detached, yet aware of every movement. It should ideally be a continuation of the meditative experience with each movement harmonious and flowing. What in fact usually happens with the beginner is that movements are clumsy and disjointed rather than flowing. This is usually because there is thinking about walking rather than letting the moment express itself in movement. It is not unlike running downstairs, if you stop and think which foot goes next you are liable to trip and fall, yet if you let it happen, you will seem to glide down the stairs. The important difference with Zen is that the movements are not mechanical but wholly conscious without losing any of their fluidity. Zen walking requires that you be aware of your contact with the ground, the moment a foot leaves the ground, and every detail of the synchronised movement of your body, with each movement flowing into the next. The final stage comes when there is attunement not only with the body but with everything around you; your walking does not offend nature and there is the sense that the air, sea and sky and everything that is around you is sharing your experience, Do not be disappointed if things do not happen immediately, persevere and hold each moment until timeless movement holds past and future in a simultaneous act of comprehension. Contemplative walking can provide the relief needed after long periods of sitting. It also provides the means of continuing the spirit of meditation at the same time as enjoying gentle exercise.

Prepare for walking by placing hands together with the back of one hand resting on the palm of the other and the thumbs lightly touching. Then start to walk slowly, fully aware of the function of walking. There should be no aspect of walking which escapes your attention, heel touching, sole of the foot etc. There should also be awareness of the breath, which is peaceful and co-ordinated. In the hands you can visualise a golden ball which symbolises the Will to Self Realisation, alternatively feel that it is Peace or Love which you hold in your hands, represented by a single Lotus Blossom or a Rose, and that as you walk the spirit of love becomes part of your every movement.

Photograph kindly provided by Kiran Bahra
www.kiranbahra.com