Athletics, Fitness & Outdoor Programs

Mindful Walking At Reed

Instructor: Gary Granger

Mindfulness includes being fully present, paying attention, and acting with a specific intent in the present moment. In this class we will explore using walking as an entry point for discovering the benefits of merging intentional physical movement with awareness of our breath and our surroundings. We will explore a variety of meditative walking practices that exploit the natural beauty of the Reed campus and expose us to new ways of moving through space.

The class is a combination of in-person instruction and self-directed practice. The in-person sessions will take place once per week during a one-hour session with the instructor. Students will also be required to complete and log a total of 60 minutes of self-directed practice weekly between in-person sessions.

Regular mindfulness practices are believed to help relieve stress, build resilience, and enhance overall wellbeing. Students will learn to use the physical act of walking as a technique for learning and practicing principles of mindfulness with the goal of being able to create their own enduring personal practice.

NOTE: Class will typically meet outdoors and involve traversing grass, dirt trails, and uneven terrain. Weather appropriate attire is recommended. Students with mobility challenges may contact the instructor to discuss possible accommodations. Each class has an dditional 60 minutes of self-directed practice weekly. Self-directed practice must be completed, logged, and submitted to the instructor weekly.

The course Moodle has additional information and resources for students.

…… Section 1: Wednesdays, 12-1pm

…… Section 2: Wednesdays, 4:10-5pm