I invite you to find a posture that allows your body to feel at ease.
It can be lying down on a mat,
Rug or your bed.
It can be seated or even standing if that is what feels right in this moment.
Take a few moments to look around the space you're in,
Taking in details and cues of familiarity.
Notice any sounds.
Notice the sensations of contact between your body and the surface beneath it.
Gently take your attention to your belly.
Notice the size,
The shape and volume of your belly.
Notice the rise and fall with the breath.
Are there any sounds from your belly?
Perhaps gurgling,
Sounds of food being digested and turned into nourishment.
Take your hands and gently place them either on your lower or upper abdomen or holding it from the sides.
What does it feel like to offer yourself soothing touch?
Does your belly like being held?
Imagine a loving and gentle energy is flowing through your hands and you can whisper in the quiet of your mind or out loud,
Thank you for digesting food.
Thank you for the magic with which you transform the food I eat into energy and life force.
The digestive team of organs and systems work for us 24-7 to make sure we are nourished,
Nurtured,
We receive the energy that keeps us alive and thriving.
Imagine saying a heartfelt thank you for all that hard work.
I feel so grateful for having such a wonderful digestive support team.
You can also remind your belly and organs that they don't have to be perfect and that they are appreciated for doing their best.
Notice what comes up as the practice unfolds.
If feelings of discomfort arise,
If overwhelming sensations come up,
Gently take your attention elsewhere,
Perhaps to another part of the body like the toes or ears.
Whatever feels safe has permission to be followed.
Notice the warm pressure of your hands on the abdomen as it rises with the inhale and drops with the exhale.
Reminding your digestive team of your loving attuned presence,
That you will do your best and you are doing your best to listen to their messages and needs,
That you work together to create a vibrant and healthy state of being.
As this short practice is coming to an end,
I invite you to gently open your eyes if they were closed,
Look around,
Take a deep breath in and sigh it out,
Moving your hands and feet,
Coming back into the here and now.
You can connect with your belly anytime during the day.
Over time this will foster a sense of presence and trust,
Listening inwards and responding compassionately to our needs moment by moment.
