Let's practice seeing interconnections through a short practice of observing our body.
Wherever you're sitting right now,
Bring the body to stillness,
And allow the eyes to gently close,
Or if you prefer,
Lower the gaze to the floor.
Let's begin by folding our attention inwards and tuning in to your body.
What is keeping this body alive?
Attend to the movements of the breath in the body,
And notice how the breath is supporting you.
Place a palm over your heart,
And tune into your heartbeat.
Notice how your heart is supporting you.
Gently drop your attention to the belly area,
Tuning in to the organs encased in this region,
And consider how they are digesting the food that has been nourishing your body and mind.
Bring to mind the people who have played a part,
Directly or indirectly,
In bringing this nutriment to you.
They may be family,
Friends,
Or even complete strangers you have never met in person.
Extending this contemplation to the people who have been supportive of you in one way or another,
People who have offered you material or immaterial sustenance,
People who have given you attention,
Words of kindness and encouragement,
Or even a simple smile,
People who have taught you something and inspired you to become a better version of yourself.
And who were the people who had played a part in awarding you this time and space to practice,
Right now,
One at a time?
Allow these people to arise in your awareness,
And reflect on the different connections you may have with them.
As you open your awareness beyond the body,
Consider how you are not separate from the rest of the world,
From the air you breathe,
To the food you eat,
To all the interactions and colorful experiences of humanity on this planet.
You are always a part of something.
As you sit and rest in this awareness,
Know that you are not alone,
Know that you are connected.
When you're ready to end this practice,
You may take a deep breath in,
Breathing out,
And open or widen your eyes.
Thank you for practicing with me.
