The Practice of Mindful Movement

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provides this guidance on how to transform our daily physical exercise into a profound spiritual practice.

The Harmony of Movement and Practice

During the summer months, you may choose to walk quickly or run in the early morning before the sun is high, or in the cool of the evening. In the winter, the best time is when the warm sun rises to bathe the earth in its gentle light. You may practise this on a concrete path around your home or upon the soft grass of the garden.

Chanting Namo Amituofo All the Way

As you walk or run, let your heart follow the steady rhythm of the Buddha-name: Namo Amituofo, Namo Amituofo. You must chant continuously, without interruption. Let every syllable be clear, bright, and distinct. As you maintain this steady flow, you will find that the spirits of spiritual attachment that may be clinging to your body are naturally shaken off, unable to hold onto a mind that is firmly anchored in the Buddha-name.

Spiritual Deliverance in Motion

While you are walking or running, you may also engage in the practice of spiritual deliverance as taught by Practitioner Su. You may visualize the Buddha emitting light to guide and receive all beings. Call upon the various lights of the Buddha:

• The Light of Wisdom
• The Light of Constant Illumination
• The Light of Purity
• The Light of Joy
• The Light of Liberation
• The Light of Peace
• The Light that Surpasses the Sun and Moon
• The Inconceivable Light

The Vastness of Compassion

In this Buddha-land, where Namo Amituofo truly abides, you are supported in your practice of visualization and spiritual deliverance. This practice helps you cultivate and grow your compassion. You can visualize at any time and in any place. The flowers, trees, and plants around you, the creatures of the earth, the beings dwelling within the clouds, and even the smallest ants and insects—all are sentient beings with karmic affinity who can be observed and saved.

The Peril of Wandering Thoughts

However, you must be vigilant. If you are walking or running but your mind is not on the Buddha-name—if you are thinking of this or that—you are falling into the trap of delusions. This is a form of impurity. Such fluctuations in your mental state will not only hinder your progress but will actually attract surrounding spirits to attach themselves to you. Please be mindful of this.

Namo Amituofo