When one speaks of meditation, the idea of peacefulness, serenity and physical stillness always never gets out of the picture. They would always think of meditation as an activity of a person sitting down at an isolated setting with both eyes closed for the sole purpose of self contemplation. Is there a different way of perceiving meditation?
Meditation can be a lot of things; it can be considered as a form of art, skill, practice or a method. It is an art that allows us to understand ourselves deeply; eventually opening different aspects in our lives that we have never explored before. It can also be a skill that has to be honed for it requires a certain level of discipline and mindset; it’s not done just by “thinking” that you are meditating and then expecting a positive result afterwards. The correct way of meditation requires a lot of pure concentration. It includes a set of rules too that are essentially followed. The result depends on the genuineness and willingness of an individual to the meditation rules and principles.
There is this one form of meditation that departs from the established traditional way of meditation — the walking meditation. This is way different from most meditation practices for the fact that a change in geographical location is required, hence the name walking meditation. Cooperation of the mind and body is needed for one to experience a holistic and positive result. Another good thing is, walking is already a fundamental physical activity for us so anyone can meditate by doing this every day!
Another thing that differentiates this meditation from the traditional practices is that no isolation is needed — any setting is acceptable. In fact, a room full of people and different noises is also allowed. However, there is an obstacle. The level of focus and concentration from traditional practices should be the same as this form of meditation. You have to learn to block the external influences that can easily interfere with your mental efforts. It’s normal that you become conscious of the external factors but always bear in mind to never entertain them.
The foremost essence of this meditation form is keeping a well-balanced consciousness or stability between your internal presence and the external atmosphere. Along the way, you will learn a lot about how your body functions and get a sense of your physicality. As you walk, observe how it makes you feel — your emotions and mood. External factors are expected to distract you and when this happens, do not defy. Though you should not cling onto these factors, just let them come to you but avoid any form of interaction.
At this point, you will recognize the pure significance of consciousness. Being able to be conscious of the external environment while being equally as conscious to your inner self is the ideal process of this meditation. Once you achieve this, the blurs and complications in your life will soon be transformed into a clearer vision. Through building a bridge of connection between your inner self and the outside world, you will have a better grasp of your life.
