Sound walks and Sound walking

Soundwalks combines the attention to everyday sounds with the everyday action of walking to result in soundwalking. Sound is everywhere simply because our ears are always on and walking is a unique motion that moves us forward. This is a practice that brings the attention of the listener to the often ignored acoustic processes and events that surround us.

Soundwalking is a creative engagement with the world and with nature. It also provides a personal sense of stewardship for our environment and care for those around us.

The practice of simply listening encourages being present minded and is a key to staying healthy and happy. Living in the present helps fight anxiety, reduces worrying and keeps one grounded and connected to yourself and everything around you. It also enables a healthy mental well-being.

This 1.5 hour experience begins with mindfulness meditation the key to soundwalking. It is followed by lessons on attentive listening,  a soundwalk in a rural or urban area, journaling the sounds heard, drawing what you took in and finally sharing with others.

Reservations can be made at Experiential Soundwalks on MeetUp here: https://www.meetup.com/experiential-soundwalks .

Comment: Focusing on and recognizing everyday sounds is an innovative way to affect a new kind of mindfulness.

Podcast Listening on Purpose

Listen to China Blue’s interview in the podcast Listening on Purpose with Timothy Myers the Principal Conductor & Artistic Advisor at Austin Opera.