As I lay in the still waters under the Puerto Rican sun, I watched my breath go in…I watched my breath go out. I existed as a passive observer of the automated inspiratory and expiratory actions that kept my body alive.
With each inhalation, my lungs expanded…my body becoming evermore buoyant. I floated in the stillness, undisturbed by the sights and sounds around me. With each exhalation, my lungs contracted…allowing me to sink deeper into the water…to sink deeper into the peace within. In this experience, physiology and physics were swimming together to produce this inexplicable feeling.
I felt true presence – a detachment from what was or what would be. I lived in the here and now. But as the Caribbean rain began to pitter-patter on my face, the world began to call. I arose from the water, refreshed and inspired for what new life was to come.
***Reminder of how to do mindfulness meditation:
If you prefer, begin with a prayer or simply envision the peace you hope to feel. Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the ground, or on the floor cross-legged, and keep your spine erect, shoulders relaxed, and chin parallel to the ground. Rest your hands on your thighs with your palms facing up. Close your eyes and concentrate at the point between your eyebrows. Just passively observe your breath going in and out through your nose, without trying to control the rate. If your eyes drop, gently bring them back up. If your mind wanders, don’t worry about it, just bring your attention back to your breath.