“If you are in a bad mood go for a walk. If you are still in a bad mood go for another walk.” — Hippocrates

There was an incident in Gandhi’s life where he was not able to meet people because he was unwell. When the time for his appointments came, the people who were so eager to meet him found that they had all been given the same time to meet Gandhi, and they started arguing amongst themselves, for each of them desired a one-on-one meeting. As Gandhi approached them and saw them arguing he said, “Gentlemen, at this point the only person who is going to have an appointment with me is the one who can keep pace with me at this walk. So, come out and walk with me”. Now, it was a pebble-ridden path and not comfortable but Gandhi kept up a brisk pace. It was all they could do to keep up with him! And lo and behold, at the end of this walk, this same bunch of arguers were laughing and joking quite happily, poking fun at each others’ struggle to keep up with the frail form of Gandhi.

Do you see what happened here?

Gandhi succeeded, subtly and effectively, to neutralize the agitation his guests were feeling and move them into an amiable and jovial state.

He used a simple tool to do this — a brisk walk, and a bit of a playful challenge!

Taking people for a walk as a way to create conditions of calmness and connection is a technique Steve Jobs also used to great effect. It is something I find very rewarding as well. I do this regularly when meeting with people on my team to discuss sensitive subjects, for example, and when I feel the need to dial my own emotions down.

Have you ever consciously or subconsciously used this technique to build calmness and connection, or dial your or others’ emotions down? If not, do you want to give it a try? (If you do, make sure it is a relatively serene path you take for your stroll. Being in nature, if you can, is ideal.)

Warmly,
Hitendra

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