Morning Awakenings

For several years I started my day lighting a candle, reading a meditation and focusing on my breath and on the candle flame. This practice helped center me and prepare me for the day ahead. I would do this of course after my first morning cup of coffee!

Last year in the midst of all the change I was experiencing I stopped lighting the candle and focusing on my breath. My morning routine had changed and I didn’t seem to have the time to fit it in.

Recently, I decided to restart this part of my daily practice. It feels good to give this back to me and work it into my morning routine. My mind, body and spirit missed this special time. I realized the loss once I started doing it again.

It feels like home to sit quietly and watch the candle flicker as I notice my breath coming in and out of my body.

I study the flame as I breathe to help my monkey mind from wandering all over the place. I bring my focus back to the flame and my breath when it wanders away.

It is soothing too. It grounds me. It connects me to the world around me and to the universe. My spiritual self is awakened in the process. I am comforted and feel more whole.

This gift of a few moments of well spent time awaits me each day. It is my choice to open the package and experience where this precious gift takes me today.

What centers you, prepares you for your day and connects you spiritually?