Running is like a moving meditation for me…although some would say not a meditation in its purest sense….but it allows me the opportunity to connect with my silence and develop self awareness when I am immersed in focussing on my breathing and having total awareness of my body so that I do not injure myself on the rather large rocks and bumps in the road.
I am practicing witnessing my thoughts pass through my mind, and then consciously draw my attention to my breathing (puffing 🙂 ), and to awareness of my body and surroundings – where I need to place my feet. I am actually becoming more adept and being able to know where to place my foot without even looking at the ground. I seem to be developing a sense and awareness of where the rocks are – even when I am not consciously looking at the dirt road.
I witness my thoughts as they come into my mind. “Lift your spine out of your hips”…”strong spine”…..” focus on your breathing”……. “should I turn around now, or otherwise Max may have to come and find me 🙂 “…. “what will I have for brekky?”. Thoughts pass through my mind all the time, and the key for me it to just be aware of them – witness them – take notice and act on the ones which support my self-awareness; and do not continue the conversation in my mind with others.
How amazing that a simple thing like running can teach me so much! Perhaps there is an activity that you may find you enjoy which brings you to a place of connection, silence and self-awareness.