Mindfulness of Breathing.
#WednesdayWisdom…

One of the simplest things we can do to recharge our batteries is to take a time out and watch the breath. Since it is always with us, no special equipment is needed, not even a special meditation cushion or timer. Of course, the more comfortable you can make yourself [whether sitting on the floor or on a chair] the more relaxed you will feel and the longer you will be able to simply switch off and enjoy the sensations of breathing.
- With your eyes gently closed and the face relaxed, breath in and out naturally. It doesn’t matter whether the breath is smooth, long, short — don’t force it — just watch it as it comes and goes. Try being aware of it at the tip of the nose or in the rising and falling of the abdomen — see which works best for you. No need to count or try to make the in and out breaths the same length, just let it flow naturally. The important part is to remain focused. If thoughts come or sounds, acknowledge them but try to keep your attention on the breath. If you get distracted, gently re-establish attention and continue.
Try to keep going until you notice that the mind has become quiet and still. If it does, remain there for a while and enjoy the experience. If it doesn’t, remember that this is a ‘practice’ and set the intention to try again later on or tomorrow. Remember: it’s not a competition and no-one is judging you.
If you find it something you enjoy, maybe set a timer for 15 minutes and see if you can maintain full awareness right until the third gong sound. I find these timers helpful: https://www.insightmeditationcenter.org/meditation-timers Good luck and enjoy your practice!
May this teaching lead you to happiness; may it help you grow in truth. May you be freed from the suffering of birth and death.

You may also like these Dhamma articles :
