Hope Mindfulness & Prayer

nightly wind down

In the Beginning

11 minutes · Audio access options are available in the app

Listen in the Hope app

Related Scripture: Genesis 1:1 (recording quotes TLB). 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.

0:01Begin by getting comfortable, and when you're ready, allow your eyes to slowly close.

0:20As your body begins to relax, allow your awareness to rest with this verse and prayer.

0:32"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." And again," In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." With an easy awareness, begin to bring your

1:12attention to the space in the room, not examining it, just sensing it.

1:35Notice your place in the room.

1:43Just observing.

2:01Listen to the sounds in the room.

2:06Maybe it's a quiet room, or maybe it's not.

2:12Both are okay.

2:31You're just listening and enjoying the sounds, not wishing to change or get rid of the sounds, just accepting them.

3:03When it feels natural, slowly bring your awareness back to the body, noticing the weight of the body.

3:37Allow the body to relax as it becomes heavier.

4:05Allow yourself to leave the day behind.

4:13Let go of the stress, being mindful to stay present in this moment.

4:29Let yourself unwind and naturally relax in the presence of God.

4:58As your awareness begins to drift deeper, rest into the calm that only comes from the presence of a loving God.

5:36Bring your attention to the way the breath feels.

5:44Let it settle into a natural rhythm, effortless and natural.

6:08Notice how good it feels to just breathe.

6:24With each exhale, let the body feel heavier and heavier.

6:39Begin to allow the muscles to release and unlock.

6:53Feel the effects of gravity on the body.

7:07Now, gently bring your attention to your feelings or emotions.

7:27Just noticing the feelings that you brought with you today, not engaging with those emotions, remembering that we can leave those feelings right where they are.

8:04The day is done, allow God to handle what you cannot.

8:26The thoughts may begin to bubble up, and that's okay.

8:35Just notice the thoughts, and then let them be.

8:55Rest into that deeper sense of calm that can only be found in God's love.

9:18You're inviting God to bring calm over your body, to bring peace into your spirit.

9:45Resting into your true nature, a child of God.

10:07Take this verse with you, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." God, I know you're always with me.

10:35Thank you for all of your blessings.

10:39Help me to relax and let go in your presence.

10:47I trust your plan for my life.

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