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Slow Down: A Mind Exercise
Skylight
Watching Now
Slow Down: A Mind Exercise
Slow Down: A Mind Exercise
Skylight • 03:46

We often give priority to speed and efficiency in achieving our goals. We almost never pay attention to our surroundings as we quickly go from one place to another. What if, though, we took our time and enjoyed the actual journey? Running, jogging, and walking all provide a range of emotions and insights that might teach us about the value of mindfulness and appreciation.

We run the risk of missing the beauty and intricacy along the way if we rush to get there and are just focused on getting there. Running limits our ability to engage with others and helps us focus on our objectives. However, when we choose to jog more slowly, we begin to take note of the little wonders in our immediate environment. We pay attention to the people, places, and circumstances that cross our way. If we jog while retaining a balance between forward motion and concentration, we can improve our travel.

On the other hand, we are able to fully immerse ourselves in the moment when we slow down to a leisurely walk. With each stride, we have the chance to appreciate the small details of our surroundings—the shapes, colors, and sounds that we would have otherwise missed. Walking gives us the chance to connect with our environment and fully utilize all of our senses. It helps us to find delight in the journey and the simple act of advancement.

Let's not overlook the significance of the journey itself in our pursuit of success and accomplishment. By slowing down, we enhance our chances of having great experiences and discovering new things. As we run, jog, or walk to our destination, may we never forget to be in the moment, notice our surroundings, and find beauty in each step.


View Transcript
Wherever you are right now, find the farthest object you can see. Is it many miles away? A half mile away? Just a short walk? No matter. Imagine that this place is your destination. And now, imagine that you've put on your running shoes and you are running toward it as fast as you can go. Think of some things you'll see along the way that might interest you. Imagine yourself running by and taking notice of these things as they pass. Now, let's bring you back to where you started. And imagine that you're going to start toward your destination again, but this time at an easy jogging pace. Think of some more things you might notice on your way there. What people do you see? Manmade things? Natural things? Now, let's go back to your starting point more time. And this time, imagine that you're going to your destination at a very slow walk. Now, what do you notice as you move forward? How many things? What are their shapes and colors? How does the light reflect off of them? Imagine that you continue to walk, observing the things around you at this pace all the way to your destination. And, finally, ask yourself, "How was my walking journey different from my running journey?"

Watching Now
Slow Down: A Mind Exercise
Slow Down: A Mind Exercise
Skylight • 03:46

We often give priority to speed and efficiency in achieving our goals. We almost never pay attention to our surroundings as we quickly go from one place to another. What if, though, we took our time and enjoyed the actual journey? Running, jogging, and walking all provide a range of emotions and insights that might teach us about the value of mindfulness and appreciation.

We run the risk of missing the beauty and intricacy along the way if we rush to get there and are just focused on getting there. Running limits our ability to engage with others and helps us focus on our objectives. However, when we choose to jog more slowly, we begin to take note of the little wonders in our immediate environment. We pay attention to the people, places, and circumstances that cross our way. If we jog while retaining a balance between forward motion and concentration, we can improve our travel.

On the other hand, we are able to fully immerse ourselves in the moment when we slow down to a leisurely walk. With each stride, we have the chance to appreciate the small details of our surroundings—the shapes, colors, and sounds that we would have otherwise missed. Walking gives us the chance to connect with our environment and fully utilize all of our senses. It helps us to find delight in the journey and the simple act of advancement.

Let's not overlook the significance of the journey itself in our pursuit of success and accomplishment. By slowing down, we enhance our chances of having great experiences and discovering new things. As we run, jog, or walk to our destination, may we never forget to be in the moment, notice our surroundings, and find beauty in each step.


View Transcript
Wherever you are right now, find the farthest object you can see. Is it many miles away? A half mile away? Just a short walk? No matter. Imagine that this place is your destination. And now, imagine that you've put on your running shoes and you are running toward it as fast as you can go. Think of some things you'll see along the way that might interest you. Imagine yourself running by and taking notice of these things as they pass. Now, let's bring you back to where you started. And imagine that you're going to start toward your destination again, but this time at an easy jogging pace. Think of some more things you might notice on your way there. What people do you see? Manmade things? Natural things? Now, let's go back to your starting point more time. And this time, imagine that you're going to your destination at a very slow walk. Now, what do you notice as you move forward? How many things? What are their shapes and colors? How does the light reflect off of them? Imagine that you continue to walk, observing the things around you at this pace all the way to your destination. And, finally, ask yourself, "How was my walking journey different from my running journey?"


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