Coming back to the Breath

Thich Nhat Hahn’s meditation techniques

Yesterday I spontaneously introduced a few couplets to one of Thich Hahns Core Mindfulness Breathing Meditations to the group I was facilitating. The relief was palpable. I found the same relief when I first came across his teaching over 20 years ago now. 

The profound simplicity of Thich Nhat Hahn’s meditation techniques shouldn’t be underestimated. Especially when Mindfulness is such a buzz word these days. He simply invites us to return to the breath with a couple of simple words that occupy the mind so your awareness remains with the breath.

Returning to this again, what I find is that I no longer need the words. One of the suggestions early on in the practice is to hang or place reminders, usually those from the natural word, as a reminder to come back to the breath. Over time returning to the breath becomes as natural as … well … breathing!

For those who need a simple tool to regulate their nervous systems for whatever life may bring - this is a really good place to start.

Find a comfortable place, where you won’t be disturbed to do the meditation

The Breathing Meditation

Breathing in, I know I am breathing in
Breathing out, I know I am breathing out 
In … Out …. ( x5 or x10 )

Breathing in, I notice my breath has become deeper
Breathing out, I notice my that my out breath has become slow
Deep … Slow … ( x5 or x10 )

Breathing in, I calm myself
Breathing out, I feel at ease
Calm … Ease … ( x5 or x10 )

Breathing in, I smile
Breathing out, I release
Smile … Release ( x5 or x10 )

Breathing in, I dwell in the present moment.
Breathing out, I feel it is a wonderful moment.
Present Moment … Wonderful Moment ( x5 or x10 )

Enjoy your breathing !

with much Love
from my Heart to yours,

​~ Tania Aurora White Crow ~