Mindful Movement
Gentle exercises that nurture body, mind, and spirit
In the zen tradition, physical practice is not separate from spiritual practice. Through mindful movement, we cultivate awareness, build strength, and find peace. These gentle exercises honor the connection between body and mind.
Practices for Body & Soul
Tai Chi
An ancient Chinese martial art practiced for defense training, health benefits, and meditation. The slow, flowing movements promote balance, flexibility, and inner calm.
Benefits:
- •Improves balance and coordination
- •Reduces stress and anxiety
- •Enhances flexibility
- •Promotes mindfulness
Yoga
A practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. Rooted in ancient Indian philosophy, yoga harmonizes body, mind, and spirit.
Benefits:
- •Increases strength and flexibility
- •Calms the nervous system
- •Improves posture
- •Deepens breath awareness
Walking Meditation (Kinhin)
A Zen Buddhist practice of meditative walking between periods of seated meditation. Each step is taken with full awareness and intention.
Benefits:
- •Cultivates present-moment awareness
- •Gentle movement for all fitness levels
- •Connects body and breath
- •Can be practiced anywhere
Qigong
An ancient Chinese practice that coordinates slow movements, breathing, and meditation to cultivate and balance life energy (qi).
Benefits:
- •Enhances energy flow
- •Supports immune function
- •Reduces chronic pain
- •Promotes emotional balance
Daily Practice Schedule
A suggested rhythm for incorporating mindful movement throughout your day
Sun Salutation Sequence
Start your day with gentle stretching and breath work to awaken the body and set a mindful intention.
Desk Stretches & Breathing
Release tension from sitting with simple stretches and deep breathing exercises you can do anywhere.
Restorative Yoga & Meditation
Wind down with gentle poses and guided meditation to prepare body and mind for restful sleep.
The Philosophy of Mindful Movement
"The body benefits from movement, and the mind benefits from stillness."
In zen practice, we learn that true stillness can be found within movement. When we move with complete awareness, each gesture becomes a meditation. The goal is not perfection, but presence — being fully here in this moment, in this body, with this breath.