nightly wind down
The Vine and the Branches
11 minutes · Audio access options are available in the app
Related Scripture: John 15:5a (recording quotes ERV). 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.
0:01Let's go ahead and get comfortable in your bed or in your chair.
0:09And when you're ready, allow your eyes to slowly close.
0:20Take a moment to consider this verse and prayer, "I am the vine and you are the branches.
0:32If you stay joined to me and I to you, you will produce plenty of fruit." And again, "I am the vine and you are the branches.
0:55If you stay joined to me and I to you, you will produce plenty of fruit." Now, bring your attention to your breath.
1:27Notice how good it feels just to breathe.
1:37Allow your breath to make the body feel heavy.
1:53Let the body relax a little more into your bed.
2:09And on your next inhale, begin to count the breath.
2:20One on the inhale and two on the exhale.
2:31Three on the next inhale and four on the next exhale.
2:44Counting up to ten and then starting over again.
3:11If you lose track of the breath, it's okay.
3:17Just start over again counting from one.
3:46There's nowhere to go, nowhere to be.
3:52We're just here, counting the breath.
4:13On the next exhale, allow the breath to relax and become natural.
4:40Notice how the body is feeling.
4:45It might feel good or it might not.
4:51Either way, it's okay.
5:11There are no expectations.
5:20And now, for a moment or two, let your mind relax.
5:43When it feels natural, begin releasing the tension in your hands, shoulders, and neck.
6:02Let go of that stress.
6:12Release your anxieties and worries to God.
6:25Let go of your grip on control.
6:48Take a big, deep breath in.
7:02Release your stress.
7:08Let go of your frustrations.
7:22Let it all go on the exhale.
7:35We aren't holding onto the thoughts, we're just letting them release.
7:58Now bring your awareness to the way the body feels.
8:13Let the body relax and release.
8:30When it feels comfortable, bring your attention to the heart.
8:42Feel the heart beat.
8:51Just noticing it.
9:11Allow that natural rhythm and stillness to relax the body.
9:41Allow yourself to relax into the loving presence of God.
10:02Take this verse with you, "I am the vine and you are the branches.
10:11If you stay joined to me and I to you, you will produce plenty of fruit." God, I know you're always with me.
10:34Thank you for all of your blessings.
10:39Help me to relax and let go in your presence.
10:46I trust your plan for my life.