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Breath as a Compassionate Friend: Ocean Breathing for Calm Amidst Transition
Welcome, beautiful soul. I'm so glad you're here with me today. As we move through this September morning, I know many of you are feeling the subtle shift of seasons - perhaps a little unsettled, a bit overwhelmed by transitions, work pressures, or just the constant background noise of modern life.
Today, I want to invite you into a moment of pure, gentle presence. Wherever you are - whether sitting in a quiet room, riding public transit, or stealing a moment between meetings - you can practice this simple breathing technique.
Gently allow your eyes to soften their focus. If you're comfortable, let them close. Feel your body's weight settling into whatever surface supports you - a chair, a cushion, the earth beneath you. Imagine your breath as a slow, smooth river, moving effortlessly through your body.
Take a deep breath in through your nose, drawing air into the lowest part of your lungs. Feel your belly expand like a soft balloon. Then exhale slowly, releasing any tension, any holding. Breathe in warmth, breathe out anything that no longer serves you.
Now, I want you to imagine your breath as a compassionate friend. Each inhale is gathering healing energy, each exhale is a gentle release. Notice the natural rhythm - no forcing, no controlling, just witnessing.
Let's practice a technique I call "Ocean Breathing." Imagine your breath moving like waves - sometimes long and smooth, sometimes shorter and more rhythmic. Some waves are big, some small. All are perfect. When thoughts drift in, don't chase them away. Simply notice them like passing clouds, and return to the steady, reliable rhythm of your breath.
Your mind might wander - that's completely normal. Each time you notice you've drifted, that's actually a moment of mindfulness. Gently, without judgment, return to your breath. You're building a muscle of awareness, of coming back to this moment.
As we complete our practice, take one more deep, nourishing breath. Set an intention to carry this sense of calm with you. Maybe it's a gentle reminder to pause and breathe three times during a stressful moment today.
Thank you for showing up for yourself. If this practice resonated with you, please subscribe to Mindful Moments. Until next time, breathe easy, be kind to yourself, and remember - peace is always available, just a breath away.
Published on 3 days, 7 hours ago