At any moment, taking a few breaths can relax us. Sometimes though, we use these breaths to try to force ourselves from tension to relaxation, and then we’re disappointed in the process — still tense, still stressed.
We missed a pivotal step: awareness and acceptance of what’s actually happening. Ironically, a gentle exploration using three breaths can restore us to relaxed presence more reliably.
Breath #1: Notice your sensations…
Can you imagine just a little more space around any tightness or holding? Not trying to change them, just allowing your awareness to expand.
Breath #2: Notice your breath…
Any tightness here? Can you intend a little more space around your breath?
Breath #3: Notice your thoughts…
Can you offer yourself some space around these thoughts?
Space…
Not changing anything
Just making room for it all…
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This practice is inspired by John Makransky’s “Three Naturals Meditation.”