A Mindful Trail Running Experience in Kirirom, Cambodia
Date: August 3, 2025
Location: Kirirom National Park, Cambodia
Event: 20km Trail Run & Meditation Experience
Discovering Kirirom: A Place of Natural Beauty and Peace
Kirirom National Park, once home to a royal residence, is known for its peaceful pine forests, cool mountain air, and beautiful waterfalls. Just a few hours from Phnom Penh, it is the perfect place to escape the city and reconnect with nature.
On August 3, 2025, a small group of us from the meditation center ran and meditated at Kirirom.
Running with a Purpose: Physical and Mental Wellness
We began our journey early in the morning(5.45 am, center) from Phnom Penh, bringing a light breakfast and water. On the way, we dropped by Kampong Speu to pick up a person and bought many fruits to eat at the Kirirom.
Each participant had a different fitness level — from beginners to marathon runners — but we all shared the same goal: to run with a true mind and enjoy the present moment.
One of us ran 6km before, he felt hard even 6km trail. However, he has done 20km this time with us.
While running, we took a rest and ate food we prepared. Sometimes I feel hungry and tired, and want to stop. But I keep going until the end together. I couldn't imagine that I could do 20km, but I did it. I remind myself that if someone does it, that means I can do it. And I threw away my fake mind like I want to give up.
Consistency is the key, and doing things together. When we do things together, we can do everything.
Running through the pine forest, we felt a deep sense of calm. The trees shaded us from the sun, and the soft sounds of nature helped us stay grounded in the here and now. We often took breaks to hydrate, breathe, and reflect.
Be in the Moments in Nature
Along the trail, we practiced meditation while walking & running, deep breathing, and gratitude. At the waterfalls, we paused to enjoy the cool mist and the sound of flowing water. These moments reminded us of the healing power of nature when we are fully present.
We met local people selling handmade flower crowns and fresh coconuts, food, adding joy and color to our journey. Sharing smiles and small gifts also means being kind and open to others.
A Shared Meal and Deeper Connection
After completing 20km, we gathered near the second waterfall for a simple yet delicious meal — grilled chicken, fresh local fish, and warm chicken soup. Eating at the waterfall, all the food is so delicious. We felt deeply connected to our bodies and minds, to each other, to the earth, to the great universe.
Even small challenges, like tired legs or long distances, felt like hunger became part of the experience we accepted with calm awareness and even laughter.
Why Combine Running and Meditation?
A clean mind and a healthy body are deeply connected. Running is not just physical exercise — it can also be a form of moving meditation. When we run while meditating, we train not only our bodies but also our minds. We learn to meditate at any time, regardless of what we do in daily life.
Benefits of meditation & running in nature:
Reduces stress and anxiety
Increases focus and clarity
Builds stronger community bonds
Deepens appreciation for the present moment
Join Us for a clean mind, a happy life
Many participants were surprised at how far they could go when they kept meditating while running. Some even doubled their distance goal without realizing it — simply by enjoying the moment.
We invite you to join us on our meditation journey. Whether you are new to meditation or an experienced runner, you are welcome.
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Let’s run, meditate, and live happily and healthily with a true mind together.
From Camko City to Techo Stadium: A 21km Run in Phnom Penh
We planned a 20km run in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, with a group of beginners. Since most of them had never run more than 5~10km before, we were a bit nervous. We prepared it more like a picnic, thinking we’d jog a little, walk, eat, and rest. But we were wrong — it turned into a real run!
Meditation Gave Them Strength
Only 4 people joined in the end. Two of them had experience, but the others were new to long-distance running. Still, they all had one thing in common: they practiced meditation regularly. Their calm and focused attitude helped them stay strong throughout the run, despite the slow pace.
Running into the Phnom Penh Morning
š Route: Camko City → Techo Stadium (21km)
We met at 5:00 AM and talked about the goal of the run, not just fitness, but mindful running. It was like practicing meditation through movement.
Around 5:15, before sunrise, we started running under the streetlights.
“Shall we run together?”
Break Time and Coconut Water
After 5km, we took our first break. We had several short breaks during the run. Coconut water helped refresh us, and we shared some fruit and boiled eggs.
Funny thing — most people only drink, don't eat snacks, or eggs.
Maybe we don’t need to bring so many snacks next time.
Meditation and Snacks on the Grass
In front of the zoo, we stopped on a grassy area. We stretched, relaxed, ate snacks, and did a short meditation.
It was a great way to rest both body and mind. With this kind of running, anyone can do it!
21km Done — Time to Ride Home
Finally, we reached Techo Stadium after 21km!
We were tired but happy. After drinking water together, we took a tuk-tuk back home.
Warm Finish: Noodles and a Small Gift
We planned to eat at a Korean restaurant, but when I called them to reservation, it opens at 10 AM, and the food is not yet prepared. So we went to a local noodle shop instead.
We also gave each runner a small gift — a book with the date and running record written inside. And sign our name there. Everyone loved it! š
A Special Connection
While eating, someone sat next to our table. He used to practice meditation but stopped because of poor eyesight. He said, “I will come back to meditation,” and it really touched our hearts.
It reminded us to take care of our bodies and minds while we are still healthy and young.
Final Thoughts
Running 21km in the fresh Phnom Penh morning, with kind people and good energy — it was a perfect day.
Thank you to everyone who joined. It was truly a happy experience.
š” Tips for Beginner Runners
1. Start like a picnic — no pressure!
2. Combine running with meditation to stay focused and energized
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