“Walk to Awareness” Mind-Body Healing Meditation Walk at Xiang Yun Temple in Austin

Reported by Pri Tyagi, Humanistic Society Correspondent, Austin

To promote mental well-being among veterans and active-duty military personnel, Xiang Yun Temple in Austin, in collaboration with the MyArk Foundation, held the inaugural “Walk to Awareness” mind-body healing meditation walk on July 4. The event drew around 40 participants, including military chaplain Venerable Zhen Guan and several active and retired service members.

Walking meditation is a practice that integrates mindful steps with present-moment awareness, helping to relax the body and ease emotional tension. It provides a practical and accessible method of healing, especially for those affected by PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).

The event began with a Six Qi breathing and warm-up session led by Venerable Jue Ji, followed by guided walking meditation and seated mindfulness practice aimed at observing and calming mental distractions. Participants moved slowly and silently along the Noble Eightfold Path Trail, between the temple’s Guanyin Pavilion and nearby areas, immersing themselves in the healing power of mindfulness in the present moment. During the sharing session, attendees listened compassionately to one another’s experiences, offering support and solidarity.

After the event, guests enjoyed a vegetarian lunch featuring Chinese and Indian flavors prepared by the temple kitchen. The afternoon continued with a tea gathering and group discussion, where participants explored how to bring mindfulness into daily life and maintain inner peace.

The event received enthusiastic feedback and opened new doors for promoting healing practices that nurture both the body and the mind.

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