We are in the last month of the Season of Summer and my late Basque elder Angeles Arrien Ph.D. would remind us that the transitions of seasons will intensify things even more. The winds of change are upon us and the calling of transformation is all around us. What has intensified in your life? What is calling for your attention now? Her words still work through me: “The ancestors can be called on to help us in times of transitions, especially when encountering unfamiliar experiences, situations, or circumstances. They can also help us break harmful family and cultural patterns, so that we can be more fulfilled in our own lives and come to realize our dreams.”
Each season is an opportunity to connect and witness the process of internal and external changes. The seasonal transition is a calling for our hearts to awaken and align with our life purpose. Are you paying attention? No judgment, just an opportunity knocking on your door. This opportunity is not to be missed – one filled with authenticity, healing, and visioning. The practice of “letting go without being attached to the outcome” is vital for us to thrive, not just to survive. Be open to your creative spirit, the one ignited by “the fire that takes no wood.” Start to build trust with your creative spirit and cultivate a practice of being with the mystery. Begin to learn “how to be comfortable with states of not knowing” and befriend this creative spirit of yours. I invite you to walk into a forest at the height of the full moon and call-in your power song… and sing!
Our Summer Newsletter features photos from our Appreciation Luncheon, a special seasonal recipe, a piece about walking meditation, and details regarding our upcoming fall programs and events. Enjoy!
With gratitude,
Carol Cano
The Benefits of Walking Meditation
Whenever we walk as a form of meditation, the goal is not to go anywhere. Nor do we have to attain anything aside from the state of mindfulness. The process is what counts. We have to be present with every step. Faithfulness to this practice may yield any or all of the following:
Our focus is developed, something that we can readily apply in our daily lives.
It presents healthful benefits like gentle exercise, especially after a meal or when we are feeling too tired to do an intense workout.
Walking can relax us, help us banish stress and anxiety, or dispel tension or fearful thoughts.
Other Forms of Mindful Walking
Aside from the previously discussed type of walking meditation wherein we focus all of our attention on every slow movement, there are other forms of mindful walking that we can try depending on our goals or purpose.
Morning walk. It can be our quiet time as we begin the day—to give thanks, make mental plans, and prepare our mind and body for the day ahead. This walk sets the tone for the day, helps to ground us, and provides a good perspective on things that we may be thinking about.
Gratitude walk. We can take this walk at the end of the day to reflect on what transpired in the previous hours and to be grateful for the blessings received. According to research, a regular gratitude practice helps to improve our mood, fight stress and help us sleep better.
Nature walk. Here we simply appreciate the flowers, trees, plants, and animals that we meet on our walk. We revel in the beauty of nature, and pay attention to the weather, the fresh air, the sun and sky, and the other natural elements along the way. Feel free to stop and smell the flowers!
Walk for grit. This is the kind of walk that we take if we want to gain more confidence about something that we need to do. Some people would put on some empowering music as they walk, and then, they would tell themselves positive things to boost their confidence!
Upcoming Events & Programs 2023
Story Medicine Wisdom Seeking Group
with Dr. Renda Dionne Madrigal
Wednesdays
from October 18, 25, November 1, 8, 15 and 22, 2023
