Walking, until recently, was an effortless physical activity. Seven weeks after surgery to repair my Achilles’ Tendon, I’m re-learning to walk. It’s a strange sensation to be a wibble-wobbly-slow-walking child again. Strange and yet truly wonderful. I walk slowly. I limp. I watch closely for cracks in the sidewalks. And through it all I see things I would normally stroll quickly past. I am giddy over the beauty of wild Chicory growing in my neighbor’s yard. I am amazed at the texture of bark.
You’ve heard me say it before but it’s worth saying again: photography is all about seeing (not simply looking); it’s about the play of light and shadow; it’s the melding of the science of light and the art of seeing. When you’re really grooving, your breath slows down and you move the camera settings out of muscle memory – you zen out in the sensory glory of the moment.
10 Minute Walking Meditation for Photographers: Leave your camera at home and take a short walk through your immediate neighborhood.
√ Walk slowly – very, very slowly. Think about each step you take, breath deeply and let your eyes wander. If you’re feeling sassy, sway your hips a bit. Smile.
√ See – really see what lies just outside your front door and just around the corner. Think about light, shadow, color and texture.
√ Let go of your stress. Breath in the beauty of the natural world. Can you feel your place in it? You are an Artist seeing and appreciating the tiny details of this glorious world. You are in the moment. You are free. You are a Goddess observing her terrain.
- Benefits: Developing your ability to slow down and see will enhance your photography skills and also add a bit of peace and joy to your life! Besides, being a Goddess takes practice; now is the time to make time to develop your skills. 🙂
It’s official. I’ve entered my second childhood and I’m loving it! I invite you to come along with me and walk slowly through the world for a spell.
In joy,
Melinda Eliza