A moment like that takes you out of time, and can dramatically change the body’s chemistry. Nature, as we know, is the ultimate healer, and she does her best work when we work with her. In other words, we have to go outside. A slow, meandering pace on the trail gives her a chance to seep into your cells with her magic. In minutes, your whole reality becomes resonant with the rhythm of nature.
The Lawrence Hopewell Trail is the perfect place to go outside and find that rhythm. Try Carson Road Woods, Mercer Meadows Pole Farm, and Maidenhead Meadows to start. Each of these locations provides beautiful scenery as well as privacy. Alone on the trail, you can beat the winter temperatures by practicing different styles of moving meditation.
- As you walk, imagine each step you take connected by a thread, weaving a pattern as you go, and anchoring seeds of peace into the ground. When the mind stills, let go.
- Repeat a simple mantra or count until your mind lets go of any stressful thinking. Then drill down into the quiet surroundings, noticing nature’s song.
- Pause and breathe. Take in the pattern of a tree’s bark, or the veins in a fallen leaf, the tiny world inside a patch of moss. Notice, continue walking, repeat.
If you haven’t already committed to a soulful practice, trade in the jog and the bike occasionally for a slow walk out of time. Even a half hour on the trail will reset your whole system. And whether you know it or not, when you commune with nature this way, the whole world benefits.