May 7, 2015
I want to try something a little different today. Let’s allow ourselves a few moments to slow down, and be more relaxed. Breathing is one of the most important tools we have to battle stress, as well as experience relaxation, and a profound sense of well-being. This will take less than 10 minutes to read, and experience. If you don’t have 10 minutes right now, please come back later. If it feels weird, or awkward at the beginning, please humor me. Life doesn’t have to be so serious. I promise you will be more relaxed by the end. Slow down, sit-up comfortably, and breath for a few minutes.
Enjoy. Life.
Just that. [Deep breath in.] Enjoy. [Exhale slowly.] Life.
Relax.
Again. [Deep breath in.] Enjoy. [Exhale slowly.] Life.
Life is an exciting place, but sometimes there is the need to enjoy the places where we find happiness. Sitting by a park fountain, watching the cascading water move in ever changing, but always consistent flows. Watching the waves break softly upon the shore. Listening to the sounds of birds, and breezes, while feeling the hot sun warm your skin from the patio of a backyard.
[Deep breath in.] Enjoy. [Exhale slowly.] Life.
Again.
[Deep breath in.] Enjoy. [Exhale slowly.] Life.
We forget to take in what we already have, consumed in a race to have more. Watching our children play, with the gentle realization that tomorrow they will be different, and next year this moment will not be the same. Gathering with our friends in celebration, knowing that we may not see many again for years to come. Tending to the yard, with the glowing pride of your effort’s results.
[Deep breath in.] Enjoy. [Exhale slowly.] Life.
Again, slowly.
[Deep breath in.] Enjoy. [Exhale slowly.] Life.
To have dreams, we must first take the time to Dream. Walking through the neighborhood, imaging what it all looked like 50 years ago, and what it will look like in another 50. Sitting at small table in a dim restaurant, looking at her eyes in the silence, and imaging all the places you want to take her. Lying lazily outside, wondering how we all connect, and what those connections mean to us.
[Deep breath in.] Enjoy. [Exhale slowly.] Life.
Again. Feel your breath.
[Deep breath in.] Enjoy. [Exhale slowly.] Life.
We forget to feel our life -our breath!- and to smile. Jogging steadily down the trail, not racing, feeling our hearts beat with purpose and intent. Rowing firmly, feeling our muscles respond with control and pride. Sitting, anywhere, feeling our chest rise and fall with the rhythm of our breathing.
[Deep breath in.] Enjoy. [Exhale slowly.] Life.
Again.
[Deep breath in.] Enjoy. [Exhale slowly.] Life.
Life is amazing! However, to enjoy it we must experience it, feel it, know it, and love it.
[Deep breath in.] Enjoy. [Exhale slowly.] Life.
Again. One last time.
[Deep breath in.] Enjoy. [Exhale slowly.] Life.
Now Smile.
-Michael Speck
How do you feel?
4 Comments
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Jorge
May 12, 2015
I feel really well. It’s a good exercise. Thank you!
Michael Speck
May 13, 2015
Happy to hear! That’s great!