daily hope
Joy of Breathing
9 minutes · Audio access options are available in the app
Related Scripture: Psalm 34:8a (recording quotes NLT). The linked Bible reader uses the World English Bible.
Meditation transcript
Transcript of the recording. Scripture translation labels describe the translation quoted in the audio.
0:00Today, let's simply focus on the breath.
0:05We forget how good it feels to just breathe.
0:11In today's meditation, allow yourself to find joy in the simple act of breathing.
0:22Let's start by taking a few nice, deep breaths.
0:32As your breath begins to relax your body, allow your eyes to close, like the sun sets.
0:45Now take a moment to consider this verse: Taste and see that the Lord is good.
1:03And again, taste and see that the Lord is good.
1:24When it feels comfortable, take a few nice, deep breaths in, really making a point to expand the body, and expand the chest.
1:51Notice how the breath makes you feel.
2:05Now let the breath begin to settle.
2:15As your breath begins to settle, allow the body to become heavy.
2:29Notice any sensations in the body.
2:35See if you're holding on to any tension.
2:43Maybe the body is tight, or maybe it's not.
2:49Either is okay.
2:59You're just scanning the body, looking for any areas of tightness, and letting them release.
3:15And if the mind drifts away in thought, slowly bring it back to the feelings in the body, and the breath.
3:35Your body knows how to relax.
3:46You don't have to think about it for it to happen.
3:51You are simply uncovering the calm that was always present.
4:06Let your awareness rest in the arms of God.
4:25Gradually, and with ease, bring your awareness to rest on your breath.
4:42Feel the body rise with each inhale.
4:51And then allow your awareness to rest in a little more with each exhale.
5:12Notice how with each breath, the body feels a little calmer.
5:30Begin to notice the space around the body.
5:42Feel the contact of the body on the chair, and your feet on the floor.
6:04When you feel comfortable, begin to scan the entire body to build up a picture of what the body feels like.
6:18Piece by piece, release any areas of tension.
6:32Let go of your stress.
6:35Let go of your anxiety.
6:41You are exactly where you're meant to be.
6:54Allow that natural rhythm of the breath to relax you.
7:11Let your breath guide you to a place of safety in the presence of God.
7:34You are accepted here.
7:37You are loved.
7:53Take this verse with you, "Taste and see that the Lord is good." Allow your awareness to slowly come back to your body, and when it feels natural, begin to
8:23open your eyes.
8:27Sit back in your chair.
8:29Maybe you want to stretch a little bit.
8:33Do whatever feels good.
8:36Take a moment to notice how you feel.
8:41I hope you feel a little more relaxed.
8:45We'll see you again tomorrow for another day of hope.