Breathe deeply from "summary" of A Beginner's Guide to Meditation by Rod Meade Sperry,Editors of the Shambhala Sun
When we sit down to meditate, our breath is our constant companion. It's always there with us, always available. And so, it makes sense to pay attention to it. This is why one of the most common instructions in meditation is to "breathe deeply." But what does that really mean?To breathe deeply, simply means to pay attention to your breath as it moves in and out of your body. It means noticing the rise and fall of your chest or abdomen with each inhale and exhale. It means feeling the cool air enter your nostrils and the warm air leave them. When we focus on our breath in this way, we bring our attention into the present moment. We let go of thoughts about the past or the future, and we simply rest in the here and now. This can be incredibly grounding and calming. But breathing deeply is not just about relaxation. It's also about energizing and revitalizing the body. When we take slow, deep breaths, we oxygenate our blood, which can help to increase our energy levels and improve our overall sense of well-being. So, the next time you sit down to meditate, remember to breathe deeply. Not only will it help you to relax and focus, but it will also help you to feel more alive and vibrant. Just take a few moments to pay attention to your breath, and see what a difference it can make in your practice.
Similar Posts
Surround yourself with positive people and environments
When you are surrounded by positive people and environments, you are more likely to attract positive experiences into your life...
Setting small goals can build confidence in facing fears
To overcome your fears and build confidence, it is important to start small. By setting small, achievable goals, you can gradua...
The practice of zazen involves sitting in stillness to cultivate a sense of inner peace
The practice of zazen, as expounded by Dogen in his manuals of Zen meditation, is rooted in the idea of sitting in stillness as...
Setting fitness goals and tracking progress
Setting fitness goals is a crucial step in any fitness journey. It gives you a clear direction and purpose for your workouts. W...
Develop a routine to alleviate pressure
When faced with pressure, one effective strategy is to establish a routine that can help alleviate that pressure. Routines prov...
Reflect on your progress to stay focused on goals
To maintain focus on your goals, it is essential to periodically reflect on your progress. Reflecting on your progress allows y...
Love is the key to spiritual transformation
Love, the universal force that binds all creation together, is not merely an emotion or sentiment, but a powerful energy that h...
Define boundaries and set limits for a healthier lifestyle
Establishing boundaries and limits is essential when striving for a healthier lifestyle. By clearly defining what is acceptable...
Cultivating selfcompassion is important for teens with anxiety
Teens with anxiety often struggle with overwhelming self-criticism and harsh judgments. This negative self-talk can exacerbate ...
Set boundaries to protect your energy
Protecting your energy is crucial in maintaining your overall well-being and preventing burnout. One effective way to safeguard...