So you're curious about "Walking Meditation and Mindfulness, Lincoln Blvd, Playa Vista, Los Angeles, United States"? Let's dive into the fascinating world of calm and zen right in the heart of the bustling city of angels.
The Location
Playa Vista, located on the west side of Los Angeles, is a planned community known for its tech-centric vibe and modern amenities. Lincoln Blvd is a major thoroughfare that buzzes with activity, but it also offers pockets of tranquility, making it an ideal spot for walking meditation. Playa Vista itself was once home to the Hughes Aircraft Company, and its transformation into a residential and commercial hub is nothing short of remarkable.
What is Walking Meditation?
Walking meditation, often associated with Zen Buddhism and Thich Nhat Hanh, involves walking slowly and mindfully, focusing on the breath and the sensations in the feet. It's a practice that helps integrate mindfulness into everyday activities, offering a way to stay present even while on the move.
Historical Trivia
Origins: Walking meditation can be traced back to ancient Buddhist traditions, specifically the Theravada and Zen schools. It's believed that monks would practice walking meditation as a way to stay mindful during long journeys.
Modern Adaptation: The practice was popularized in the West by teachers like Thich Nhat Hanh and Jon Kabat-Zinn, who integrated it into stress reduction programs.
Playa Vista's Unique Setting: The area around Lincoln Blvd offers a unique blend of nature and urban life. It's not uncommon to find tech-savvy professionals taking a mindful stroll during their lunch breaks.
Fun Facts and Hidden Gems
Mindful Architecture: Playa Vista is known for its sustainable and innovative architecture. Many buildings incorporate green spaces and walking paths that are perfect for a quick meditative stroll.
Community Events: Playa Vista often hosts wellness events, including guided walking meditation sessions. These events are usually free and open to the public.
Local Parks: Ballona Wetlands and Playa Vista Central Park are nearby green spaces that offer serene settings for walking meditation. The wetlands are particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset.
How to Practice
- Start Slow: Begin by standing still and taking a few deep breaths. Feel the ground beneath your feet.
- Mindful Steps: Start walking slowly, paying attention to each step. Feel the heel touch the ground, then the ball of the foot, and finally the toes.
- Breath Awareness: Coordinate your breath with your steps. For example, take a step with each inhale and exhale.
- Stay Present: If your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to the sensation of walking.
Notable Influences
- Thich Nhat Hanh: A Vietnamese Buddhist monk and peace activist who has written extensively about mindfulness and walking meditation. His books "Peace Is Every Step" and "The Miracle of Mindfulness" are seminal works.
- Jon Kabat-Zinn: An American professor who created the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program. His book "Wherever You Go, There You Are" is a practical guide to mindfulness.
Community Impact
- Tech and Wellness: Playa Vista, often dubbed "Silicon Beach," is home to many tech companies. The integration of mindfulness practices like walking meditation has been shown to improve employee well-being and productivity.
- Educational Programs: Local schools and community centers often incorporate mindfulness programs, teaching kids and adults the benefits of walking meditation.
Local Recommendations
- Runway Playa Vista: A shopping center with pedestrian-friendly pathways perfect for a mindful walk.
- Ballona Discovery Park: A hidden gem with educational exhibits and peaceful trails.
Interesting Tidbits
- Tech Meets Zen: Google and Facebook have offices in Playa Vista, and it's not uncommon to see employees practicing mindfulness during breaks.
- Mindful Art: The area is dotted with public art installations that often serve as focal points for meditation.
- Celebrity Sightings: Given its trendy vibe, you might just spot a celeb taking a mindful stroll!
Resources
- Books: "Peace Is Every Step" by Thich Nhat Hanh and "Wherever You Go, There You Are" by Jon Kabat-Zinn.
- Apps: Mindfulness apps like Headspace and Calm offer guided walking meditation sessions.
And there you have it, a lighthearted but detailed journey into the world of walking meditation and mindfulness along Lincoln Blvd in Playa Vista!