I love this idea. It's been a long time since I've engaged in the practice of lectio. Your post has reminded me how much I used to get from this. I'll do this on my walk tomorrow.
That sounds great. I've done this on occasion, but not often enough. Trying to find my rhythm for writing, this poem surely gives a clue! Thanks Ann, beautiful photos.
How beautiful, Ann! What a lovely practice, and a great description of how to do it. I especially like your advice to "Just stay curious." The intellectual exercise of figuring things out is much different from the meditative aspect of deeply noticing, of letting things surface, letting things spark interest, letting things draw you in...Both are foundational to growing in wisdom and understanding, but it's human nature to prioritize the former. Thanks for putting a spotlight on the latter!
What a wonderful practice. I use my walks in similar ways, and encourage people to do the same, although I pair the 'observational' walk with some writing prompts to try afterwards. But I wasn't familiar with the term 'lectio'. I'm embarrassed to say that I've never come across the term before even though I've kind of been doing it for a long time. Thanks for sharing this and explaining the approach. I'll be trying this today.
Thank you Sarah. Lectio, though it has long been practiced, it is still a quiet thing. No need for embarrassment. I think it’s interesting how when we are quiet, reducing the chatter and noise of the mind, the powers of observation tend to increase. I’ve noticed some of the most beautiful wildflowers and tiny living treasures in the middle of a period of walking in silence, praying/meditating on a word.
Your post coincided with the online writing class I'm in right now for which the writing prompt included a solo walk in nature. I find all your posts very inspiring. Thank you!
Excellent idea and I have a similar practice. I've been working with some Zen koans and will meditate with one during my hikes and walks in Nature. I find I am much more attentive of what is happening in the forest and on the trails.
Driving and cleaning as meditation—yes.I look forward to these quiet times in a busy day. Not to be confused with “procrasti-cleaning” which is my preferred method of getting out of things I’d rather not do.
I love this idea. It's been a long time since I've engaged in the practice of lectio. Your post has reminded me how much I used to get from this. I'll do this on my walk tomorrow.
Awesome!
That sounds great. I've done this on occasion, but not often enough. Trying to find my rhythm for writing, this poem surely gives a clue! Thanks Ann, beautiful photos.
You're welcome! I hope you find a rhythm that nourishes you.
Hello Ann, I really like this idea. I loved the poem by Rumi, always so wise. Thankyou
Thank you, Mary! Rumi left some beautiful gifts for us.
I’ve lapsed with my lectio divina practice. Used to be consistent during the pandemic. Thank you, Ann for the reminder to pick it up again.
You’ve had your hands full in a beautiful way, Stella. I hope you get some rest soon. Our prayers are always ongoing whether we’re aware or not.🌿
How beautiful, Ann! What a lovely practice, and a great description of how to do it. I especially like your advice to "Just stay curious." The intellectual exercise of figuring things out is much different from the meditative aspect of deeply noticing, of letting things surface, letting things spark interest, letting things draw you in...Both are foundational to growing in wisdom and understanding, but it's human nature to prioritize the former. Thanks for putting a spotlight on the latter!
Exactly so, my friend. Thank you for your support!
What a wonderful practice. I use my walks in similar ways, and encourage people to do the same, although I pair the 'observational' walk with some writing prompts to try afterwards. But I wasn't familiar with the term 'lectio'. I'm embarrassed to say that I've never come across the term before even though I've kind of been doing it for a long time. Thanks for sharing this and explaining the approach. I'll be trying this today.
Thank you Sarah. Lectio, though it has long been practiced, it is still a quiet thing. No need for embarrassment. I think it’s interesting how when we are quiet, reducing the chatter and noise of the mind, the powers of observation tend to increase. I’ve noticed some of the most beautiful wildflowers and tiny living treasures in the middle of a period of walking in silence, praying/meditating on a word.
I love words, especially ones I've never heard before. Thank you for this one. I love how you entwined it with a walking exercise.
Ann, I'm so glad this might be useful to you!
Your post coincided with the online writing class I'm in right now for which the writing prompt included a solo walk in nature. I find all your posts very inspiring. Thank you!
You are most welcome, Ann! May the walking fuel your writerly creativity!🌿
Excellent idea and I have a similar practice. I've been working with some Zen koans and will meditate with one during my hikes and walks in Nature. I find I am much more attentive of what is happening in the forest and on the trails.
I agree. For me, it’s very noticeable how the senses become heightened when I quiet the chatter of the mind.
I need this in my life now more than ever. Thank you for this. 🙏
I hope it brings you some spaciousness and peace, Ben.
There is much to be said in praise of Rumi - I’ve only dipped in but enough to wish for more.
Interestingly, most of what I assemble isn’t done while walking but other similarly repetitive things like driving or cleaning.
Driving and cleaning as meditation—yes.I look forward to these quiet times in a busy day. Not to be confused with “procrasti-cleaning” which is my preferred method of getting out of things I’d rather not do.
Very nice to reinforce silence as a spiritual practice and a fruitful one. We can ask for guidance, but you need to be able to hear the message.
I love the way you point to fruitfulness. Thank you, Yolanda!
I absolutely love the idea of intentionally combining walking with lectio. Thank you for the inspiration.
Rebecca, however you you make it your own, I hope the practice is a source of peace for you.