The expectation often is that we should be energetic and goal oriented at the beginning of the year. However people can often feel tired, lost and lacking clarity after the festivities. If you have felt this way or just need a quick reset then this is for you.

Breathing meditations can be used to become more joyful, less fearful, and more balanced. Meditation helps create more clarity and improve decision-making skills. The next time you have a difficult decision, ask yourself the question and then meditate. The answer will come from a gut feeling, taking you beyond the thinking mind. Yogis call this dhi or buddhi, which means “knowingness.”

Today let’s take five minutes for a stress-relief breathing meditation.

Find a quiet and comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed. Sit with your feet flat on the floor or cross-legged, maintaining a straight back. Rest your hands on your belly. Close your eyes gently, and let’s begin.

Start by bringing awareness to your body. Release any tension, starting from your head down to your toes. Take a few moments to do this.

Now, focus on your breath. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your belly to expand. Exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling your belly contract. Inhale, silently repeating the mantra “I am calm.” Exhale, silently repeating “I release stress.” Focus solely on your breath and the mantra.

Continue belly breathing with the mantra. Inhale deeply, feeling the breath fill your abdomen. Exhale, allowing your belly to contract. “I am calm” on the inhale, “I release stress” on the exhale.

After a minute or two or when you feel called transition to a body scan. Send relaxation to different parts of your body, starting from your toes and moving up to your head. Release any tension with each breath. Stay here for 2 minutes or what feels comfortable to you.

Return to belly breathing with the mantra. “I am calm” on the inhale, “I release stress” on the exhale. Feel the soothing rhythm of your breath. Take a few breathes here breathing in and out.

Conclude with a closing mantra. Inhale deeply, focusing on belly breathing. As you exhale, silently repeat, “I am centered.” Feel a sense of calm and centeredness spreading through your entire being.

Gently become aware of your surroundings. When you’re ready, open your eyes. Take a moment to appreciate the stillness and calmness you’ve cultivated.

As you go about your day, remember this sense of calm. Whenever stress creeps in, take a few deep belly breaths, and recite the calming mantra to bring yourself back to this centered state.

I hope this helps you carry a sense of calm with you throughout your day.

In love and light

xxx