Discovering Resilience in the City with Walking Meditation

This post comes from Qalvy Grainzvolt of the Shinnyo Center for Meditation and Well-Being, our partner for Wednesday morning Walking Meditation.   

“Roadside grass is often trampled upon yet retains the spirit to endure and grow.”
–Master Shinjo Ito, Shinnyo-en

The Buddhist master and founder of the Shinnyo lineage, Shinjo Ito, often explored the profound lessons Mother Nature teaches us about a different sort of nature: the human kind.

The natural landscape of Bryant Park is a special backdrop in mid-town Manhattan. The beauty of the park reminds us that even in an urban environment, there are pockets of calm amidst the bustling streets, high-rises and tourist attractions.

In fact, the “roadside grass” is a source of inspiration during our walking meditations in Bryant Park. While taking the slow turns around the gravel paths of the park, we observe the lush green lawn.

Some mornings, the blades of grass are heavy with dew. The city’s wildlife scampers across the grounds, searching for seeds and crumbs. Footprint impressions are left behind by morning commuters taking a shortcut across the park.

But the trampled grass will eventually stand upright – demonstrating the remarkable resilience that all living things possess.

This is true with human nature, too. We overcome challenges and bounce back to life with time and contemplation – whether it is a walk in the park, guided meditation, time spent with family and friends, or participating in other restorative activities. It is in these small moments where we discover the resilience found in human nature – and the spirit to endure and grow.

Practice resilience before work, and you'll have a much better day at the office.

Walking Meditation
with the Shinnyo Center for Meditation and Well-Being
April 27 - September 28
Wednesdays, 8:30am - 9am
Upper Terrace Gravel, across from the Bryant Park Cafe