daily hope
Stress Is Just a Feeling
9 minutes · Audio access options are available in the app
Related Scripture: 1 Peter 5:7 (recording quotes NIV). 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.
0:00Most days, we wake up in the morning and as soon as we walk out of the door, we encounter stress.
0:08Our to-do lists seem to get longer, and it's so easy to get wrapped up in them.
0:16So quickly, stress seems to affect the way we see the world.
0:22But when this happens, it's important to remember that stress is just a feeling.
0:30It's just a regular part of life.
0:33And once we identify it as a feeling, we can just as easily leave it where it is and let it rest.
0:44Okay.
0:46Let's begin by getting comfortable.
0:51Take a few nice, big, deep breaths.
0:59And when you're ready, allow your eyes to slowly close.
1:09Take a moment to consider this verse: Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1:29And again, cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1:53Now, bring your attention to the way it feels when you breathe.
2:10Feel the stomach and the chest rise with each inhale.
2:20And feel the body relax with each exhale.
2:40In through the nose.
2:43Feel the body expand, and then slowly exhale.
3:06Let the breath be natural.
3:10Let the breath naturally relax the body.
3:28Allow the face and the neck to soften.
3:44Allow the forehead to relax and the shoulders to fall away from the ears.
4:02Relax the body and allow the chair to hold the body up.
4:19Just relaxing and letting the body unwind.
4:35Simply let go.
4:54Now, take a moment to be grateful for this opportunity to relax.
5:13Notice how good it feels just to be here in this moment.
5:29When it feels natural, begin to deepen the breath.
5:44Let go of your worries and focus your attention on the breath.
5:58Nothing else matters right now.
6:03You are here.
6:06There is nothing to do but relax.
6:20Allow your body to honor the natural calm given by God's presence.
6:37Just listening to the breath, noticing the rise and the fall of the chest.
6:52Deep breath in, expanding the body, and then exhale, letting your awareness rest.
7:17Take another deep breath as you feel your lungs expand.
7:26And exhale, following the air back out through the mouth.
7:41The thoughts may take you away, and that's okay.
8:00With each breath, effortlessly rest into the arms of God.
8:23Take this verse with you, "Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." Slowly bring your awareness back to the body, and when you feel ready, allow
8:56your eyes to open.
9:00Take a moment to notice how your body feels.
9:06I hope you feel a little better.
9:10We'll see you again tomorrow, with hope, mindfulness, and prayer.
9:17Remember, be easy with yourself.