Oakland’s Mindful Mile
Powered by the Oakland Business Improvement District
The Mindful Mile Project recognizes the undeniable connection between nature and holistic health. In response to the demanding pace of modern urban life, we have crafted a rejuvenating one-mile loop through the bustling streets of Oakland, providing residents, workers and visitors alike with a much-needed respite. This unique project is designed by a Certified Forest Therapy Guide, ensuring a thoughtful and immersive experience that fosters a mindful connection with the surrounding natural environment and business corridor.
Embarking on the Mindful Mile involves more than just a walk—it’s a journey of self-discovery and well-being. As you traverse the carefully curated route through the business district, you will encounter mindful prompts strategically placed along the way and throughout the commercial district, encouraging moments of reflection, relaxation, and awareness. By incorporating mindfulness into this urban setting, we aim to alleviate stress, improve focus, and promote a sense of balance in the lives of those who engage in the Mindful Mile. This is a URA grant funded initiative.
The Mindful Mile is your time.
We encourage you to use this time in a way that best suits your needs each time you complete it. It can be used for physical exercise by jogging, running, or walking briskly, or mental relaxation by walking slowly and with intention throughout the course. Depending on your pace it will take approximately 20-30 minutes to complete.
Before you begin, take a few deep calming breaths. Whether you are using this time to relax, reconnect with yourself, or get in some quick exercise, set your intention.
1: Forbes Plaza
Corner of Forbes Avenue and South Bouquet Street
Begin to notice your surroundings. What do you feel (ex. clothes against your skin, the wind blowing, the ground under your feet). What do you hear? Birds chirping, people engaged in conversation, or maybe even silence.
Walk to Fifth Avenue and make a left
2: OBID Brownstones
3506 – 3508 Fifth Avenue
Pay attention to the various colors, notice shades
of the same color.
Walk along Fifth Avenue and take a left on Halket Street near Sciulli’s Pizza, then make another left on Forbes Avenue.
3: Black bench on Forbes Avenue
3435 Forbes Avenue
Sit on the black bench near Arby’s and notice any movement. This can be movement on the street from passing cars, people walking by, or even movement you observe within yourself.
4: Lot adjacent to Next Tier Bank
Corner of Forbes Avenue and McKee Place
Note any trees, plants, and flowers around you. Observe the colors, textures, and smells. Take a few minutes to appreciate nature even in an urban setting.
5: Yellow bench on Forbes Avenue
3605 Forbes Avenue
Near the Big Idea Center & Hello Bistro
Sit on a bench and notice what you hear. What sounds are close by and what sounds are far away? Notice human-made sounds and sounds from our natural world.
Continue along Forbes Avenue
Make a right on Oakland Avenue
6: Outdoor Dining on Oakland Avenue
Grab a drink and a small bite to eat. Sit at one of the tables and notice what your food/beverage feels like, how it smells, tastes, and makes you feel as you eat/drink it?
Continue along Oakland Avenue
Turn left on Sennott Street
Turn left on S. Bouquet Street
Take a right on Forbes Avenue
Walk towards the light at the crosswalk near the UPS Store
Safely cross the street
Make a left and walk back on Forbes Avenue
7: Return to Forbes Plaza
As you walk, notice how different surfaces feel under your feet. If you feel inclined, take a moment to send gratitude to the Earth with each step.
Think of something you are grateful for and notice how it makes you feel.
Self-care is not a luxury. Give yourself some gratitude for being on this journey.
Please be mindful of your surroundings and walk at your own risk to ensure a safe and pleasant experience.
Mindfulness means paying full attention to the present moment, including your thoughts and feelings, without judgement. This can sometimes bring up difficult emotions that you may not have fully acknowledged. If you're feeling overwhelmed by these feelings while practicing mindfulness, it's important to seek support from a therapist, mental health professional, or call 988. You are not alone.