Do you ever feel weighed down by anxious thoughts, stress, or simply the chaos of the day? Sometimes, the most effective remedies are the most simple.
Jonny Wilkinson shares a transformational practice he calls "slow walking," a mindful approach to moving through life - quite literally - that can reshape how you feel and perceive the world.
What Is Slow Walking?
Slow walking is exactly what it sounds like: walking as slowly, loosely, and relaxed as possible. The goal isn’t to get somewhere quickly but to intentionally create an environment where stress and anxious energy cannot thrive. Jonny describes it as moving at a pace so slow it might even turn heads - because it’s not how most of us usually walk.
Why Slow Walking Works
We often carry the energy of our thoughts in our bodies. When we're stressed or anxious, our movements can become hurried or tense, reinforcing the very state we’re trying to escape. Slow walking interrupts this cycle:
- Shifts Your Energy: Walking slowly, with relaxed arms swinging at your sides, introduces a calm, steady rhythm to your body. This new energy invites different, more peaceful thoughts to emerge.
- Reduces Stress: The practice helps dissolve the mental clutter by creating a space where anxious thoughts no longer align with your physical state.
- Transforms Perspective: By focusing on the act of slow, intentional movement, you can shift from a place of overwhelm to one of clarity, no matter how far you walk.
How to Try Slow Walking
- Choose a Safe Space: Whether it’s a quiet park, your garden, or even a long corridor at work, find somewhere you feel comfortable to slow your pace.
- Set an Intention: Before starting, remind yourself that this isn’t about reaching a destination but about creating calm and clarity.
- Slow Down: Walk as slowly as you can while staying balanced and relaxed. Let your arms swing gently by your sides.
- Stay Present: Notice your breath, the sensation of your feet on the ground, and the world around you. Release any thoughts of what you "should" be doing.
- Be Consistent: Even a few minutes a day can make a noticeable difference.
The Impact of Slow Walking
What makes slow walking so powerful is its accessibility. You don’t need any special equipment or a large chunk of time—just a willingness to slow down and connect with yourself. As Jonny explains, the act of walking slowly for long enough can shift you from one "world" to another, changing how you feel and how you see the world around you.
So next time stress starts to creep in, take a moment to slow down—literally. You might be surprised by how such a simple practice can transform your day.
