How to Practice Thich Nhat Hanh's Walking Meditation: A Step-by-Step Guide

Radhika Dadhich

Perex: Learn Thich Nhat Hanh's walking meditation with ease. Follow this simple guide to find peace and connection in each step.

In a day-to-day busy work schedule, it may be difficult to find peace in this bustling environment. However, you might get it only by strolling, acknowledging the routine practice of mindful walking meditation, as per the suggestion of Thich Nhat Hanh. This article offers a road map for basic walking meditation. 

Who Invented It?

This kind of walking meditation was first established by the well-known Vietnamese Buddhist monk, teacher, and peace campaigner, Thich Nhat Hanh. He became well-known around the world for his lectures on mindfulness and peaceful life.

Where and for Whom?

Walking meditation, inspired by Nhat Hanh, can be used by everyone regardless of their age, background, or beliefs. It can also be practiced in either a natural atmosphere, such as a garden or forest, or an urban atmosphere, like streets and walkways.

How Does It Work?

This kind of meditation includes walking as a primary exercise and understanding. It also encourages people to completely keep their focus on every step, developing awareness regarding their body and environment, as opposed to moving from one location to another.

How to Take Part in Walking Meditation, According to Thich Nhat Hanh

To practice Thich Nhat Hanh walking meditation, here are some steps you should consider:

  1. Find a Calm Area: select a peaceful area where you will not feel bothered, such as a garden or park.
  2. Begin with breathing: You should breathe with some attention for a bit. Take a relaxed breath in through your nose and exhale through your mouth. This activity provides mental relaxation.
  3. Walk Gently: You have to move at an easy pace, being understood at every step. Feel your heel rise while your foot contacts the ground. 
  4. Feel Your Own Body: While you walk, pay attention to your body's feelings. Feel the sensation of your muscles, the floor under your feet, and the pulses of your breathing.
  5. Observe Your Surrounding Environment: Keep focus on the sights and any sounds surrounding you. Take observation of the hues of the environment, the forms of the trees, and the sounds of the water or birds.

What Serves as Its Foundation

The walking meditation practiced by Thich Nhat Hanh has its strong base in the mindfulness tradition of Buddhism, and it emphasizes the value of living in the present moment. Attentive walking offers potential and rising calmness, awareness, and a good sense of connectivity to the world or environment.

Conclusion

You can boost your sense of mindfulness and feel better in the world through Thich Nhat Hanh walking meditation. It is very easy as well as effective. 

Summary

Walking meditation combines breathing, movement, and awareness for inner peace. Thich Nhat Hanh's method cultivates calm, clarity, and connection.