Thank you for joining me for this object-focused mindfulness meditation.
Before we begin,
Please ensure that you are sitting somewhere safe and comfortable.
Close your eyes with ease and begin to ground yourself by noticing the way in which your chair,
The floor,
Or the ground is supporting you.
Try to relax as many of your muscles as you can to feel even more supported.
In a moment,
I will count down from five to one.
When I reach one,
Simply open your eyes and begin to look at the very first inanimate object that you see.
Here we go.
Five,
Four,
Three,
Two,
One.
Take the time now to observe the object that first came into view when you opened your eyes.
Pay particular attention to the object's shape,
Any color variations,
And its texture.
Try to discern at least one physical attribute that you've never before noticed about this particular object.
If you discover your mind or your gaze beginning to wander,
That's okay and very common.
Just gradually turn your attention back to your object when you're ready.
As you continue to observe your object,
Become aware of the pace of the blinking of your eyes.
Notice that with every blink,
The object disappears for a split second before reappearing.
Take a moment to marvel at the continuity with which we view objects despite this disappearance and reappearance cycle.
We are so accustomed to the blinking mechanism that we rarely give it a second thought.
When it feels comfortable to do so,
Gradually expand your gaze to encompass the area around you.
Note any feelings of relaxation or refreshment and carry these feelings with you as you go about your day.