Busy Streets, Still Mind: The Power of Mindful City Living
When you live in a city that pulsates with life 24/7, towering skyscrapers pierce the sky, neon signs paint the night a kaleidoscope of colors, and the relentless hum of traffic creates a constant soundtrack. This energy is exhilarating, undeniably. But for many, it can also be overwhelming. The constant barrage of stimuli can leave you feeling drained, anxious, and disconnected.
Sound familiar? If you're one of the many who find themselves yearning for a moment of peace amidst the urban chaos, there's hope. You don't have to escape the city entirely. In fact, Hong Kong's very vibrancy can be the key to unlocking a sense of calm.
My story:
When I first moved to Hong Kong in 2017, it felt so overwhelming.It was a bit too much of everything. But I was heavily into urban sketching then and that really helped me see the city in a whole new light. I enjoyed exploring my neighbourhood and realised what a gorgeous place HK is!
While mindful walks are suggested in nature, one can also have a mindful city walk! So, I had the chance to collaborate with a lovely photographer Sherry Gui. And I was so happy to hear that she is also into mindfulness and shares similar views regarding mental health.
Introducing the Mindful Walk in your city:
This activity isn't about escaping the city but experiencing it in a whole new way. It's a sensory scavenger hunt designed to help you reconnect with your surroundings and find pockets of peace in the most unexpected places. Here's how it works:
Choose a Bustling Route: Pick a vibrant area, where the sights, sounds, and smells are truly immersive. So Sherry and I chose areas around the business district which is always bustling with people.
Slow Down and Breathe: Before you start, take a deep breath and remind yourself to be present. Leave the rushing behind and focus on the experience.
Embark on a Sensory Adventure: I've provided a list of prompts to guide you. Your mission is to find an example of each using your senses.
Sight: Find something that makes you smile. Find an object that's an unexpected colour. Find the tiniest detail you can spot. For me, the accessible ‘nature’ of HK always puts a smile on my face and calms my mind.
Sound: Find a sound you've never noticed before. Locate the loudest noise you can hear. Discover a calming sound that soothes your mind. The familiar sound of the traffic lights and the trams gives me a sense of safety and order.
Smell: Find a delicious aroma that makes your mouth water. Find a surprising smell that piques your curiosity. Find a scent that evokes a happy memory. Bread is bae and you cannot pass by the umpteen bakeries and resist that aroma of freshly baked goods!
Touch: Find something incredibly smooth. Find a texture that's rough and intriguing. Find something cool and refreshing to the touch. I find this contrast of textures very calming. These touches remind me of home.
Taste (Optional): After your walk, treat yourself to local food . Savour the flavours and textures mindfully. And this was a well-deserved reward! It is indeed the best way to meet, connect and enjoy the traditional tea and eats. Food is the way to everyone’s heart.
Reflect and Connect: Once you've completed your scavenger hunt, take some time to reflect. What surprised you? What brought you joy? How did focusing on your senses change your perception of the city?
I am always mindful of what I experience, but this experience affirmed my faith in another important lesson. Consider this your sign to take that plunge and collaborate with people and you never know how pleasantly you would be surprised by how you can meet like-minded people and create such a magical experience!
Currently, I am enjoying documenting my day in my journal, so this was an entry for this day.
The Call to Reclaim Your Urban Oasis:
Hong Kong may be a bustling metropolis, but there's beauty to be found in the details. This mindful walk is just the first step. By engaging your senses and appreciating the little things, you can transform the overwhelming into the extraordinary. So, lace up your shoes, grab your curiosity, and embark on your sensory adventure in the heart of Hong Kong. You might be surprised by the oasis you discover right outside your door.
I would love to share your glimpses from your mindful walk! So please tag me @urmimenon and use the hashtag #thecreativewellnessproject so I can share your work.
