I guess the difference with tooth brushing, showering, etc, is that they take very little time (ok: not true with me and showering: I find pleasurable to let my thoughts wander, so I take a longer time than needed). But brushing your teeth? It takes very little time commitment, you don't have the chance to get bored!
I can even think about the stuff I'm about to do while I brush my teeth. Let's compare it with doing martial arts: most teachers require you to be "in the moment", not think of something else.
I suppose this is why I think I would like trekking if I lived in a suitable location. You can walk, enjoy the scenery, and think of something else.