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What is the practice of "walking meditation" in Thich Nhat Hanh's tradition?
The practice of "walking meditation" is a core aspect of Thich Nhat Hanh's tradition of mindfulness and Zen Buddhism. It is a form of meditation that involves being fully present and aware while walking, rather than sitting in a traditional meditation posture.
In Thich Nhat Hanh's tradition, walking meditation is seen as a way to cultivate mindfulness, concentration, and peace in our daily lives. It is a way to bring our attention to the present moment and connect with our surroundings and our own inner selves.
The practice of walking meditation begins by finding a quiet and peaceful place to walk. This can be indoors or outdoors, as long as the environment is conducive to a calm and mindful state of being. The practitioner then starts walking slowly and deliberately, paying attention to each step and the sensations in their body.
As they walk, practitioners are encouraged to be fully present and aware of their surroundings. This can include noticing the sights, sounds, and smells around them, as well as the feeling of the ground beneath their feet. They are also encouraged to be aware of their own thoughts and emotions, without judgment or attachment.
One of the key aspects of walking meditation in Thich Nhat Hanh's tradition is the focus on the breath. Practitioners are invited to synchronize their steps with their breath, taking one step with each inhale and exhale. This helps to deepen the sense of mindfulness and connection to the present moment.
In addition to being a form of meditation, walking meditation is also seen as a way to cultivate gratitude and compassion. As practitioners walk, they are encouraged to send loving-kindness and compassion to themselves, to others, and to the world around them. This can be done through silently repeating phrases such as "May I be happy, may you be happy, may all beings be happy."
The practice of walking meditation can be done for any length of time, from a few minutes to an hour or more. It is a versatile practice that can be incorporated into daily life, whether it's during a walk in nature, while doing chores around the house, or even while walking to work.
In summary, the practice of walking meditation in Thich Nhat Hanh's tradition is a way to cultivate mindfulness, peace, and compassion in our daily lives. By being fully present and aware while walking, we can connect with ourselves and the world around us in a deeper and more meaningful way.