Just Be: A Poem For Stress & Anxiety Relief

Written and read by Sarah Kennedy, this short poem is a gentle invitation to pause, breathe, and step away from the constant rush of overthinking and overwhelm. With playful reflections on trees, rocks, and stars, it reminds us of the peace found in simply being. Let Sarah’s words ease anxiety, soften stress, and bring you back to the present moment.

Transcript

Hello, I'm Sarah Kennedy. This is a poem I wrote about 20 years ago, And people who've listened to it have told me that it brings a smile to their face, It eases their stress, And helps them settle into the simple state of being. So wherever you are, Sit back, Take a breath, And just allow yourself to receive the poem. To Be a Tree I wish I were a tree, Because then I could just be Zazen breathing in, And the world would spin. Or I could be a rock, I wouldn't have to talk, Or rush about to be somewhere by 9 o'clock. Or to be the air, Free from the need to search for love everywhere. Or a pile of sticks, Never again having conversations regarding politics. Or an ancient star who always twinkles, With no regard to gray hair or wrinkles. Oh, To be a tree, I do not think the birds would judge me, Think my branches too fat or thin, Or the color of my leaves more or less thin. To be a tree, I could just be, And be, And be.

Reviews

That was lovely! What a delightful way to start the day! Thank you!

Pure joy 😄

Beautiful words and reading… oh to be a tree 🌳
Thank you 😊

So fun! And I had such a nice relaxing breath spontaneously run through me at the end. Thank you! 🙏💗