The breath is our life force,
Our quiet signal that we are alive.
Like ocean waves moving in an ancient rhythm,
Without any conscious effort on our part,
The breath often goes unnoticed.
We become aware of it only at the edges of our life,
When we're stressed or when we're deeply relaxed.
Then we notice that the breath quickens or it softens.
But the breath is dynamic,
It is in constant communication with us,
Reflecting the landscape of our inner world.
The breath reminds us of what's going on in our thoughts,
Acting as an emotional mirror,
An honest,
Ever-present barometer of our present state of mind.
Navigating the nuances of the breath is almost a study into itself.
The breath is one of the greatest tools we have in our meditation practice.
It is the anchor that we return to over and over,
Each time our thoughts begin to wander.
We just keep returning to the breath to remind us of our essential nature as a living being.
Let's get into a comfortable position and let your body settle.
Close your eyes and just allow your breathing to come naturally.
We're going to lend some attention to this process,
This breath that dutifully choreographs our body 24-7 for our entire lives.
Let's invite in a little awareness.
Notice how the inhale feels slightly cool as the air first enters,
And how the exhale feels a bit warmer,
Carrying the heat of your body.
Can you feel the air hitting your throat,
Even your chest,
Maybe your diaphragm?
On your next inhale,
Gently think the words,
I am mindful of the gift of breath.
With the next breath,
I am mindful of the gift.
And simply,
I am mindful.
And finally,
I am.
I am mindful of the gift of breath.
I am mindful of the gift.
I am mindful.
Turning to your breath awareness can support you not only in meditation,
But throughout your day.
You find yourself in moments of tension,
Difficult conversation,
Times of uncertainty,
Times of stillness.
The breath remains as your faithful reminder to anchor yourself,
Increase your sense of awareness,
Of presence.
Breath is the universal life force.
It's the one thing every human being shares across the globe.
It is in this ubiquitous process that we are all united as one.
In this,
There is no separation among us.
We all rely on the same constant river of movement to ensure our survival.
As you move through your day,
See if you can seek out moments to pay attention to your breath.
Thank the giver of breath that you are alive for another day.
Thank you for joining me in this recognition of the breath and in gratitude of the breath,
The very foundation of our existence.
See you next time.
