Steadying The Emotions

Find a comfortable position either seated or lying down.

You may choose to close your eyes or keep them open with a soft focus.

Know that you can adjust your position any time you feel the need.

As you settle into the space,

You may notice that your mind is busy and active.

That's okay.

Allow it to be as busy as it wants as you gently shift your attention to the breath moving in and out of your body.

In and out.

A wave of breath.

In and out.

Allow your focus to rest lightly on whatever is happening in your mind.

There may be thoughts,

Feelings,

Memories,

Hopes,

And fears.

Let them all be present as you call to mind a balance beam that a gymnast might use.

Picture yourself on that beam as all the mental events swirl around.

At first,

You might feel off balance.

Within that unsteadiness that you feel,

Allow a part of your attention to rest once again on your breath.

You can imagine the breath as a kind,

Helpful,

Steadying hand as you remain fixed on the beam.

In this way,

The breath steadies you no matter what is happening in your mind.

The breath steadies you and you will not fall.

For a few moments,

Stay in that place.

Aware of the thoughts and feelings that try to pull you off balance,

Get able to trust the steadying,

Calming breath that acts as a guidepost to keep you upright even as those mental events go on.

The breath as a steadying hand as you balance comfortably on the beam.

It won't let you fall.

Wherever your mind is,

Allow the image of the balance beam and the hand to fade.

Take three deep and intentional breaths,

Noticing the body releasing the energy from the hands and feet.

Relax a little bit on every exhale.

When you are ready,

Open your eyes and return to your day.