Take a Walku

 

Haiku is an unrhymed Japanese poem recording the essence of a moment keenly perceived, in which nature links to human nature. It usually consists of 17 jion (Japanese symbol-sounds) arranged in a 5-7-5 pattern.

Examples: https://poets.org/glossary/haiku

Thinking in the rhythm of Haiku provides exercise for the mind. If you combine this concept with a walk in a natural setting, you will discover a Walku.

Study the Haiku form before you go, take a few with you. You do not have to follow it exactly in your three lines. Keep your senses open.

Take a walk for 30 minutes. Stop occasionally and write three lines. Look up and around and write three lines. Notice connections. See how many series of three line observations you can write in the time limit. 

Here's a day's Walku:

Shadows move on rocks

Tree sounds its branches upward

Fingers to tempt sky

 

Black crow interjects

Sunlight dances on stone paths

Scent of hope in breeze

 

Clouds hang on mountain 

Eager to chase each other

Sun catches my pen

 

The fence teases me

Slide under, or crawl over

Lavender beckons

 

Look up! Way, way up

Watch cloud form to toy with sky

Teach gulls to giggle

 

Anytime you need a break from work, writing or yourself, take a Walku.  You will return refreshed.

Turn off your computer and go for your Walku now.