Active Meditation : Integrating Physical Activity and Mindfulness for Cardiovascular and Mental Health

Abstract

Active meditation, defined as the practice of mindfulness during walking or light running, represents a promising integrative strategy for promoting both cardiovascular and mental health. While physical activity and mindfulness meditation have robust individual evidence bases, their combination remains underexplored. Recent findings including a systematic review identifying improvements in blood pressure, functional capacity and inflammatory markers in addition to anxiety reduction support the potential of mindfulness and physical activity. Experimental studies have shown that walking or running with attentional focus enhances exercise enjoyment, reduces perceived effort, and fosters adherence. Although randomized controlled trials are still limited, preliminary data indicate benefits on autonomic regulation and psychophysiological balance, particularly for populations with high stress or cardiovascular risk. This opinion piece argues for increased recognition of active meditation as a complementary approach in preventive and clinical health strategies. A structured protocol is under development, aimed at expanding its application. The time has come to integrate body and mind in movement and presence.