//11: Take a walk on the wild side: A mindful hike

May 18, 2022

+++ So much more than just a “walk in the park” +++ None of us can deny the pleasant feelings that hikes in nature bring with them, from the deep sense of relaxation we feel in nature, to the stillness that allows us to refocus, and the lush greenery that invigorates us. Nowadays, forest bathing has even become a science onto itself. Whether your closest nature space is a forest or a park, being able to connect with a scenery of green seems undeniably good for the soul.

We've spent some time doing a mindful hike with some visitors of the space: from focusing on our breath as we walk, to being mindful of specific patterns and sounds as we move forward, we consciously shift and center our attention, being fully present with our experience. And the beauty is that we can return to these mindful practices at any time, diving right back into the peaceful state we've anchored within earlier.

+++ Assignment 11 +++ Allow yourself to immerse into a mindful nature experience. Ideally, visit a forest nearby, or nature that is as untouched as you can find. Bit by bit, as you walk, shift your attention to each of your senses:

Sight: Which color spectrum can you witness? Which patterns do you observe? Where can you find the light, and how does it visually play with the spaces it meets?
Scent: Which scents meet you as you walk through the space? Spend some moments consciously taking in the fragrance of the plants and elements you meet on your hike, from flowers to moss to tree sap.
Touch: Explore what all your fingers can feel, touch the plants and ground wherever it calls you, connect with your surroundings haptically. Appreciate each texture you can experience, observing how it lets you feel and how unique it is to you.
Taste: If you know a few wild herbs (with certainty!), savor them as you place them in your mouth and take in the texture, the aromas.
Sound: Let yourself be pampered by the soundbath that comes with the forest. Close your eyes and witness the sounds from all around. Which are most present for you? Which do you hear only faintly or in the distance? Which attract you, call you?