Breath Meditation

By J. Dana Trent

Freedom Statement

Amid the chaos and anxiety of life, breathing can be difficult. As I explore the invitation to connect with my breath—my life source—I will be gentle with myself. I will remind myself to breathe deeply, slowly, and smoothly. I will focus on progress, not perfection.

Opening 

Be still, and know that I am God. | Be still and know. | Be still. | Be.

Practice

Engage in three minutes of breath meditation. Become aware of your breath with each inhalation and exhalation. Breathe slowly and deeply until your breathing becomes smooth. When you feel distracted, gently return your attention to your breath.

Closing 

Be. | Be still. | Be still and know. | Be still, and know that I am God.

Daily Examen

God with Us. How did you feel God’s presence during this daily meditation, if at all?

Gratitude. Offer thanks to God for giving you the breath of life. Give thanks for the ways in which you felt God’s presence before, during, and after your meditation.

Growth. What challenged you today? What came easily today?

Hope. What do you hope tomorrow’s meditation practice will bring? 

From One Breath at a Time: A Skeptic's Guide to Christian Meditation by J. Dana Trent. Copyright © 2019 by J. Dana Trent. Published by Upper Room Books.