Jon Kabat-Zinn says that the practice of meditation is an invitation to embody your humanity any time you want to, and you do it with the breath you take.
Paying attention to your breathing as you go about your day, allows you to be present in your life rather than to be stuck in the past or the future – thinking about your memories or your plans.
Neither memories nor plans are bad on their own, but when we dwell on them excessively, at the expense of our mental wellness, then it is time to stop: feel your feet on the ground, feel your breath flowing in and out, and discover the calm in your mind. Do it with compassion and curiosity and pay attention to how your body reacts to these kind acts.
“Where you put your attention determines your entire life.”
Dr. Shawna Shapiro
Before I started my daily meditation practice nearly a year ago, thoughts would be flooding my mind uncontrollably from the moment I opened my eyes in the morning. More often than not, they kept me up at night as well. I didn’t know that there was another way to be.
Meditation gave me back a sense of control. Memories, plans, and general commentary are still there, but now I can quiet my thoughts down by returning to the breath, and as a result of paying attention to the moment, I see more clearly and respond better.
I invite you to close your eyes and feel your feet on the ground. Then put one hand on your heart and say: Good afternoon (your name). I love you. Focus on your breath and let yourself smile.
May you be truly present.
May you embody love and joy.