Mindful Walking: Benefits and How To Practice
![Reframe App Logo](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/60d10433104bca13abce2c13/6524611f0bc6ca7db5aea21b_logo.webp)
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns that jolt us from our comfort zones. This journey, as exciting as it may be, is also fraught with challenges. Our ability to bounce back from setbacks is rooted in our emotional resilience, a vital trait that buffers us against life’s blows. But, as we know, not all coping strategies are beneficial. Some, like reaching for the solace of alcohol, can undermine our emotional resilience, leaving us more vulnerable to stress. So what is emotional resilience exactly, and what stands in the way of becoming resilient? Are there ways of building emotional resilience? Let’s find out more.
Mindful walking is the practice of walking with an awareness of the movement of your body and the sensation of each step you take. It means being completely present in the moment, fully engaged in what's happening right now.
During the journey to reduce or quit alcohol, it's common to encounter challenging emotions and increased stress. Mindful walking offers an avenue for managing these struggles. This is because mindfulness focuses our attention to the present, reducing the time we spend fretting over past regrets or future anxieties. It also provides a healthier coping mechanism, and the physical activity of walking can alleviate cravings and reduce the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms.
When we incorporate a mindful walking practice into our routine, here are a few of the benefits we can expect:
Now that we've discussed the benefits of mindful walking, let's delve into how we can incorporate this practice into our daily routine. Here are some steps to follow:
In our bustling lives, it can be easy to forget the simple yet profound effects of practices like mindful walking. As we strive to cut back on alcohol or transition to an alcohol-free lifestyle, turning to such mindfulness techniques can offer us a means of coping with the stressors that will arise throughout the journey.
Don’t forget that mindfulness (including mindfulness walking meditation) isn't about clearing our minds of all thought — it's about learning to pay attention to our experiences in a kinder, more curious way. The next time you find yourself walking — on your way to work, strolling in the park, or simply moving from one room to another at home — take a moment to turn it into an opportunity for mindfulness.
A mindful walking practice might just add a spring to your step. And who knows? Maybe it’ll bring a welcome shift in perspective, too!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Reframe supports you in reducing alcohol consumption and enhancing your well-being.