There was something kind of thrilling about meeting a group of strangers in complete silence. Our shared intent gave the time, place, and the very air around us, some inexplicable potency. It was almost like being a secret agent with a spiritual mission. Warm smiles and knowing nods were exchanged from a distance. We settled in for a short meditation at the prearranged meeting place – a sizeable circle of trees – before setting off.

Silence and nature are two things that really speak to my soul, so a walking meditation was too good an opportunity to pass up. I was especially curious about how a group dynamic might play out. During the course of four hours we were lead through a maze of several London parks, busier roads and quieter streets, with lots of breaks along the way. The beautifully slow pace set by our two organisers accommodated for all…