So Hum: A Simple Meditation

With Spring in full bloom (what a wonder the magnolia, cherry, plum and pear trees lining my street in Seattle are!) I'm finding the days to be fuller and my moods to be up, down and all around as the weather shifts and the natural world stirs. And already, I am anticipating Summer, which is such a wondrous time full of activity that it often zooms by. There is so much inviting our attention!With this new season and an increase in activity, we can use our breath to quiet our minds and savor each moment, now and with each subsequent shift of season, mood and life.By paying attention to our breath, we can indeed slow down time and develop appreciation for change, while investing ourselves deeply in our present.Bring yourself into the rhythm of your breath anytime with this simple meditation. This technique is a great way to start the day, savor the beauty of nature in the garden or quiet your mind while standing in line.Give it a try:1 – Find a comfortable chair or floor cushion and sit with an erect spine (or stand)2 – Either gently close your eyes or gaze softly at the floor in front of you3 – Bring your awareness to your breath, especially the movement of the breath at the tips of the nostrils. Do not try to change your breath, just be an observer4 – For the length of each inhale, let your mind echo the word “SO.” For each exhale, hear/say “HUM”5 – Practice for just a few minutes or as long as you like. Take a few moments be still before moving back into your day