Spiritual Walk

Even in the midst of pandemic isolation, one can go outside and walk. Our plant and animal sojourners live in different communities just like us. Some in the beginning states of their succession and others in the climax stage. What we most often hear about them is the Darwinian “survival of the fittest”. But what is also more importantly occurring is the collaboration among and between them. Each member has a job to do. Each member needs to be successful for the health and survival of the community. Sound familiar to our current status?

So, if you are taking a walk, why not make it a Spiritual one? How does this type of walk differ from a traditional one? In a non-spiritual walk, your mind is active and is more interested in what and who that you see and hear. In a spiritual walk, you deliberately work to turn the mind off, to open your heart wide, and to walk in awakened silence. This enables you to be more receptive to the sights, sounds, and messages that the God wishes to share with you. If you are walking with someone, wait to share your experiences at the end of your walk.

When you step outside to begin your walk, take time to become receptive to non-verbal communication. If you have your own way to do this please use it, otherwise consider using these suggestions. 

First, stop and close your eyes, physically feel the weather (temperature, moisture, winds) and the earth beneath your feet. Continue getting into the present moment by becoming still and silent. Draw in a deep breath through your nose, hold it, then exhale all of it through your mouth. Repeat this several times. Each time seeking to be aware of the air passing through your nose and throat. Seek to only be aware of what you are having your body do.

Then let your mind quieten, become mute, and become aware of your heart. Seek to let heart expand into the environment. When you feel centered and in present time, open your eyes.

Second, bow your head and pray: “God, I know that all things here on this planet, Earth, have been created by You. I know that we are all inter- connected and that our health and vitality are inter-dependent. Help me to quiet my mind and open my heart to the sights and sounds that you most wish to share with me. Help me to hear the message(s) being sent to me. Amen.’’

Third, begin your walk, let your eyes and ears drift about and when they find something of interest, stop and continue experiencing with no attempt to control what comes to you. You may feel like you are in a dream-like state. Savor the feelings and messages that may come. If your mind begins to process known information, turn it off and return to a heart receptive mode.

And lastly, at the end of your walk take time to thank God for walking with you, When you are back at home, reflect on what emotions and sensations you experienced or phrases that you received. You might want to journal about your spiritual walk. If you take the same walk more than once, be aware of what changes in your perception.

It is in the time of trial that we are most vulnerable. It is in those times that our channels are most open to God. Cash in, take a spiritual walk! God has your back.

Jimi James                                                                                                                                        
Health & Wellness Ministry