We are of the earth, and belong to You
Every step that we take upon You
should be done in a sacred manner;
each step should be as a prayer.
~Black Elk

Summer weather is on the way. A time when we shed our socks and wear more sandals, or even go barefoot when possible. I have many wonderful memories of running around barefoot as a kid. Nowadays, it's harder to get away with bare feet in public. Yet, I still love it. 

Whether you can be barefoot or not, walking without having a destination can actually be a very grounding meditation. Paying attention to each footfall as it walks on the earth can help to quiet the mind. Feel the connection of the foot as it hits the earth and be completely present to the feel of the grass or sand with each step. In his book "Present Moment, Wonderful Moment," Thich Nhat Hahn says, "We walk all the time, but usually it is more like running. Our hurried steps print anxiety and sorrow on the Earth. If we can take one step in peace, we can take two, three, four, and then five steps for the peace and happiness of humankind."

Mindful walking will actually quiet the mind and slow down our breathing so that it is in harmony with our steps. Spending ten to thirty minutes walking mindfully can have the same effect as sitting for meditation. And, if you are lucky enough to get to be barefoot, the feel of grass or sand under your feet can even connect you to your inner child and that joy of summertimes past.

The mind can go in a thousand directions.
But on this beautiful path, I walk in peace.
With each step, a gentle wind blows.
With each step, a flower blooms.
 ~Thich Nhat Hanh