daily hope
Openness in the Body
9 minutes · Audio access options are available in the app
Related Scripture: Exodus 14:14 (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.
0:00We frequently focus on relaxing the body in meditation.
0:06We do this because a tense body often accompanies a busy mind and a restless spirit.
0:14By learning to relax and creating more openness in the body, our minds can begin to calm, and this allows us to really experience the present moment.
0:29Take that with you as you settle into this meditation.
0:36Okay.
0:37Let's begin by consciously relaxing the body.
0:44And when you're ready, allow your eyes to slowly close.
0:54As your body begins to settle, take a moment to consider this verse: The Lord will fight for you.
1:08You need only to be still.
1:18Again, the Lord will fight for you.
1:26You need only to be still.
1:45Now, let's take some nice deep breaths, in through the nose and out through the mouth.
2:05Just noticing and observing the breath, watching the rise and the fall of the chest.
2:25Listen to the gentle sound of your breathing.
2:37Begin to notice any feelings you may have brought with you today.
2:51Thoughts are a natural part of meditation.
2:59Just leave those feelings right where they are, and then gently come back to the feeling of the breath.
3:19Long, deep inhale, then a slow, controlled exhale.
3:34Allow the breath to calm the mind and relax the body.
3:53And now, allow your awareness to fall and move inward, finding that place where you feel loved.
4:13Feel that natural peace in God's presence.
4:25Remember, when you come near to God, he will come near to you.
4:50Bring your attention to any emotions you're carrying with you.
5:05Not engaging with your feelings, just noticing them.
5:21Almost like you're observing your emotions, and then letting them go.
5:32Just like loosening your grip, you're letting go of those feelings.
6:01Let God handle whatever is out of your control.
6:17This is a place of acceptance and safety.
6:25You can always find rest in God.
6:41Now, begin to notice how your body feels.
6:54When it feels comfortable, begin to consciously relax the body.
7:11Scanning down from your head to your toes, release any areas of tension in the body.
7:31Surrender all of your stress and all of your responsibilities, and just let your mind rest.
7:56You are safe.
7:59God is looking out for you.
8:15Take this verse with you, "The Lord will fight for you.
8:24You need only to be still." When you feel ready, slowly bring your awareness back to the breath and allow your eyes to open.
8:52Take a few deep breaths, in through the nose and out through the mouth.
9:02Notice how you feel.
9:07I hope you feel a little more relaxed.
9:11We'll see you again tomorrow, with hope, mindfulness, and prayer.