Written by Judy Johnston
Meditation has become common practice to many people. The idea of becoming mindful, is sort of funny if we think on the word. Mind full, so clear your mind of thoughts. Then shouldn’t it be called Mind Empty. Mind Flush. Mind blank?
But seriously, folks.
The purpose of meditation is to cause the body and mind to become calm. Calm the breath. To do so,
breath deep,
and hold for a count of 2,
exhale.
Pause at the exhale for a count of 2,
then inhale again.
You can practice this simple method called Square Breathing anywhere. Slowly increase the count from 2 to 4 then to 6. It may take time to be able to hold the exhale until the count of 6. This is a practice, so as you practice you will get better at it. Increasing the amount of air thus oxygen to the brain and the body will exercise the lower part of the lungs bringing more oxygen to the blood stream. Most people are shallow breathers and only use about half of their lung capacity.
Your lungs occupy about half of your chest. They are big. They expand to your back. Try this, inhale, hold your breath, then breathe in a little more. Usually, you can add a bit more air. Slowly exhale. As you exhale you can relax your jaw and make a sound. Awwwww. or Ohmmm. Feel the vibration in your chest, lips, and face.
They are many different ways to meditate.
Walking outdoors is my favorite way to calm my brain. The fresh air, the sounds of nature, the sunshine, even the rain, all bring my attention into the present moment.
Prayer. Many cultures have repetitive words, phrases, chants, or songs. The rosary, prayer beads, mala beads give a physical touch as one chants, prays, or speak the words to God. This too calms the mind and relaxes the body. This too is a way of letting go; letting go of the angst, the worry, the anxiety. “Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46.10 NIV.
When I perform Purebioenergy Healing Therapy, I feel tremendous joy. I usually end up singing. It is a peaceful place to be.
Today I want to share a guided meditation.
Read this first to the end, then close your eyes and imagine yourself in this scenario. Another possibility is to record this into your phone and play it back at any time.
Picture yourself by the ocean. Feel the soft warm sand under your feet. Spread your toes into the sand. Do you feel a piece of coral, or just the silkiness of the tiny grains of sand?
Feel your calve muscles relax. The warmth of the sun caresses them.
Hear the sound of the waves gently flowing onto the shore. Then rolling out again to the sea.
Choose to touch the water with your fingers, it is cool but inviting.
Sit down and feel your thighs, legs and buttocks relax.
Stretch out your arms to the sky.
Be aware of the deep blue of the sky, the fluffy white clouds.
Lift your chest and inhale deeply. That fresh salt air fills your lungs.
Exhale and let go any worry or strain.
Inhale again, let your body roll back onto the soft sand.
Your back is supported by the earth. The sand supports you.
Your shoulders relax,
Breathe in again.
Exhale.
Feel your neck muscles release.
Your jaw is open.
Inhale, Exhale, and sigh aaawww. All is well.
The gentle breeze caresses you.
The sound of the waves brings a rhythm of calm. All is well.
Relax your face. Lift your eyebrows high, then let them fall. All is calm.
With your eyes closed, look to the centre of your forehead.
See the colour that is there.
Feel the warmth on your face.
Smell the sea air.
Breathe in.
Let a feeling of love fill your body as you melt into the warmth of the sand.
It is good. All is well.
Rest.
Inhale deeply.
In this moment all is well.
Feel it.
When you are ready, slowly open your eyes. Gently come back bringing that beautiful sense of peace, tranquility, and love with you.
In this moment, all is well.