Teens' Moving Meditations

Moving meditations, such as walking, running, swimming, biking or any repetitive rhythmic movement can become a regular personal practice anywhere! Getting outside and moving in the fresh air is revitalizing; energizing.

Also, the change of scene provides a distraction; time away from a sticky situation or problem. Sometimes a short breathing space is all that is needed to gain another perspective.

Preparation: Begin by breathing in and out in an even and equally spaced pattern. Listen to your breaths if it is quiet, but most importantly, breathe in and out evenly. Example: Breathe in 1 count; breathe out 1 count; continue …

Now, begin walking, hop on your bike, or do another rhythmic exercise for at least 5 minutes. While exercising, enjoy the scenery; relax your mind from what you have been doing or thinking. When you are ready to stop, take time to stretch and take a deep breath in and out.

I have found that moving and breathing rhythmically energizes me; brings my body, mind and emotions into a greater feeling of balance, which I feel as harmony with people, surroundings and what I am doing in life.

Walking is perhaps the most convenient moving meditation. Swing your arms back and forth in opposition. When you step forward with your right foot, swing your left arm forward, and vice versa. If you watch runners, you'll see them using their arms and legs this way.

If you are feeling angry, upset or anxious and can't go outside for a walk, just begin breathing in and out evenly, while walking around the room.

Moving meditations
Back to balance bringing
By rhythmically paced
Activities and breathing

Article - Susan Helene Kramer
photo credit Stan Schaap; dunes at Castricum aan Zee, The Netherlands

Links:
Instant Meditation for Children and Teens
Sitting Meditation for Teens
Relaxation Meditation for Children and Teens

For offline reading

Meditation and Spirituality for Teens
Teens, this is an ebook for you to read and practice on your own, a primer with 15 chapters to learn to meditate in a variety of ways and explore your spiritual nature.