Breathing is a common anchor for mindfulness from "summary" of MINDFULNESS FOR BEGINNERS. by JON. KABAT ZINN
The breath is always with us, from the moment we are born until the moment we take our last. It is a constant companion, a faithful friend, and a powerful ally in the practice of mindfulness. By turning our attention to the breath, we can ground ourselves in the present moment and cultivate a sense of calm and clarity. When we focus on the breath, we are tuning in to the rhythm of life itself. We are connecting to something deep and primal within us, something that is always there, waiting to be noticed. The breath is like an anchor, keeping us steady in the midst of life's storms. It is a point of stability in a world that is constantly changing.
As we pay attention to the breath, we begin to notice its subtle nuances. We become aware of the rise and fall of the chest, the expansion and contraction of the belly, the coolness of the inhalation and the warmth of the exhalation. We start to see how the breath is intimately connected to our thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations.
Through mindfulness of the breath, we learn to let go of distractions and come back to the present moment. We let go of worries about the future and regrets about the past. We let go of judgments and expectations. We simply observe the breath as it is, without trying to change it or control it in any way.
In this way, the breath becomes a portal to the present moment. It is a doorway through which we can step into a space of awareness and acceptance. By returning to the breath again and again, we train our minds to be more focused, more compassionate, and more resilient. We learn to meet whatever arises with an open heart and a clear mind.
So, the next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or lost in thought, remember that your breath is always there, waiting for you to come home. Take a few moments to pause, to breathe, and to reconnect with the present moment. In doing so, you may just find the peace and clarity you have been seeking.
