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Soft Landing: A Restorative Breath Practice for Transitioning to Restful Sleep
Hey there, welcome to Sleep Soundly. I'm so glad you've carved out this moment for yourself today. I know that in our fast-paced world, finding peace can feel like catching moonlight in your hands - delicate, elusive, but absolutely possible.
Today, I want to recognize something many of us are experiencing right now - that sense of accumulated tension, those racing thoughts that seem to spin like restless clouds just beyond our reach. Maybe you've been carrying stress from work, personal challenges, or just the general uncertainty of these times.
Let's begin by finding a comfortable position. Whether you're sitting or lying down, allow your body to settle, like a leaf gently coming to rest on still water. Close your eyes if that feels right, and take a deep breath in through your nose, feeling your chest and belly expand. And then slowly exhale, releasing any tightness you've been holding.
I want to guide you through a practice I call "Soft Landing" - a gentle technique to help your nervous system transition from the active energy of day to the restful quiet of night. Imagine your breath as a soft, warm blanket, gradually covering you with comfort and calm.
With each inhale, picture drawing in tranquility - like soft silvery light filling your body. And with each exhale, let go of anything that doesn't serve your peace. Notice any areas of tension - perhaps in your shoulders, your jaw, your hands - and consciously invite those muscles to soften, to release.
Your thoughts might drift, and that's completely okay. Think of your mind like a night sky - thoughts are passing clouds, and you're the spacious, unchanging darkness behind them. You don't need to chase or judge these thoughts. Simply observe them, and let them float by.
Continue this breathing. Soft inhale, gentle exhale. Creating space. Allowing calm.
As we complete this practice, remember that rest is not a luxury - it's a necessity. You're not just preparing for sleep; you're nurturing your entire being. Carry this sense of spaciousness with you through your evening.
Thank you for joining me today. If this practice resonated with you, please subscribe to Sleep Soundly, where we'll continue exploring gentle paths to rest and renewal. Until next time, be kind to yourself.
Published on 2 weeks, 1 day ago