Over the last couple of weeks I have noticed a new habit emerging. I now have the desire to have a walk before I sit down to work. Its not a goal that I am making myself do, it just seems to have arisen naturally since I started to practice the work of Byron Katie.

The benefits of my little wonderings are many and varied.

• I feel energised
• I am more creative
• I enjoy marvelling at the plants and trees and little birds (especially the Robin that sang for me this morning)
• I feel much more at peace with myself

I’m not saying that you should follow my lead.  Just notice how you feel next time you happen to go for a walk.  What happens to you when you surrender yourself to the moment and just notice whatever surrounds you regardless of whether it is nature or the hustle and bustle of a big city.   See the people around you and feel glad to be alive.

I have started to read an amazing little book by Vietnamese Buddhist teacher Thich Nhat Hanh after hearing him on a BBC documentary a few months ago.

His message is all about living in the now through the principle of mindfulness and the book I am reading called “Peace is every step”. Whilst all the articles I have read so far have resonated deeply. One right at the beginning seems to hold the key to a more peaceful and fulfilling life.

It’s so simple you might be tempted to dismiss it but don’t – just try it out for yourself and see what you think.

Breath in and say to yourself “Breathing in I calm my body”
Breath out and say to yourself “Breathing out, I smile”
Breath in and say to yourself “Dwelling in this present moment”
Breath out and say to yourself “I know this is a wonderful moment!”