Breathe

Ten years ago I experienced a sadness that is still challenging to talk about today. I remember being on autopilot, moving through the day, putting one foot in front of the other and doing what needed to be done - showing up but not really being present, experiencing but not really feeling. In the midst of my grief on this day a beautiful friend put her arms around me. She held me close but it wasn’t enough. She knew me well and exactly what I needed. She only said one word to me and it was so simple –

Breathe

Of course, I was still breathing but I was breathing shallow, short breaths. This one word reminded me to take a long, deep breath and with it give myself permission to make space for the pain, to feel it, release it and be present. 

I often catch myself during the busyness of the day or during moments of sadness reverting back to shallow, short breathing and I’m reminded of my friend’s simple spoken word. A word I so often share with my clients but so easily forget myself at times. My beautiful friend may never truly know what she did for me on this day but it is something I will forever remember and be grateful for.

Breathe it all in, love it all out…

I encourage you to take a moment now, just for yourself, to really breathe and feel your breath’s grounding presence. Find a comfortable seat, gently close your eyes and mindfully breathe in for four counts noticing the rise of your chest and then exhale out for five counts letting it all go. Repeat three times or as many times as your body, mind and spirit need. 

With gratitude and wellness,

Justine