by Alyson Breisch

Southern Conference Minister

for Health and Wellness

Isaiah 30: 21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it.”

Walking is one of the most fundamental human activities. It’s simple, rhythmic, and universal, yet its significance goes far beyond the physical act of putting one foot in front of the other. How much of the time do we walk (or run!) through life without really being aware of what we are doing, how our body is responding, or what is happening around us? Taking a walk is good for our bodies, our minds, and our souls. Walking is deeply restorative. Walking activates the imagination and opens up our creative processes. A walk in gardens, green areas and forests lifts our spirits and decreases activity in brain regions involved in stress processing. A walk may double as an invitation for prayer. 

Begin your walk with a prayer, asking that your eyes and ears be open as you walk in God’s way. Center yourself in the present moment. Use all your senses. What colors, shapes, and textures do you see? Become aware of the feeling of the ground beneath your feet as you walk, how your clothing touches your body, the sunshine, wind, or rain on your skin, the feel of a flower petal or the bark of a tree. Listen. Do you hear birds, wind in the trees, people, machines, animals? Be grateful for all you experience. Take the time to incorporate intentional reflections and prayers while walking. Pray for people who introduced you to life’s important lessons. Think of those who have touched your life in a special way. As you walk, let faces of people you have known come to mind, and express thanks for what they have taught you. Pray for someone who needs encouragement or forgiveness. As you walk become aware of your breathing. The Hebrew word, ruach, means the wind or breath or spirit that God breathes into us. It reflects the unconditional love you’ve received from God. May your walk bring peace and contentment in stressful times knowing that God is with you.