Mind full? or Mindful?

If I asked, are you "Mind full or are you Mindful" what is the difference? This week we are going to figure that out. 

We are at week 3 already! Time for another weekly challenge. And yes, I realize I have been posting on Monday but I didn't. Instead, I went SHOPPING!!!!! And I got A LOT of steps in. 

Before we know it, It's going to be spring. It certainly has felt like spring here in Northern Utah for a few weeks. In fact, I have zero snow in my yard. But since spring is on the way, why not focus this weeks challenge onto walking, or as I like to call it, "Some spring in your step!"

 I very much dislike the word "exercise." In fact, as a weight watcher leader, I really try hard not to use that "E" word. I call it "Activity" instead. Just sounds...funner, even though funner isn't a word. 

For some, a walk is something you're already doing and a short walk may seem too simple.  I never said it needed to be short though. What I'm challenging you to do, is to take a MINDFUL walk. 

I know. "What in the world is a 'mindful' walk?  Mindful walking is more a practice (think yoga,) as opposed to just getting in your cardio exercise. Mindful walking means you are aware of your breathing, thoughts, steps, and you clear your mind of cluttered "to do" lists, or a MIND FULL, and put aside worries about unfinished tasks.  With each step, just enjoy the simple pleasure of walking.  

We've all experienced the "I don't feel like exercising," day. (Eeeek. The E word) but guys, we all can walk. I am often reminded of a saying, when I'm having those, woe is me type days. 

"I had the blues because I had no shoes until upon the street, I met a man who had no feet."

It's not about having the best shoes, or the time, or anything like that, but more of a matter of are you WILLING to walk? Are you willing to make it a priority. Yes. You  may have to schedule it in. Again, are you willing?

During the spring and summer months, and even into early fall, I made a personal goal for myself. My goal was to walk wherever I was going, IF it was less than one mile away. This meant I PLANNED  to leave 8-10 minutes earlier. And I didn't stroll. I really really pushed it. So...I walked to work (School work, not WW work) and church, and to Dixon's school. And I enjoyed the breeze, and the birds, and the sunrises, and yes, even some sun sets. And walking in a rainstorm or even a snow storm can be quite refreshing! The bottom line is to stop making excuses for why we can't get out and walk, and start making walking a priority.  Park in the furthest stall away from the store entrance and do laps around Walmart. Whatever you do, make this your mantra:  "Today, I WILL walk, more than I did yesterday."