Hi friend,
I'm Shania Gordon and I am so glad you're here.
I'm a mindfulness meditation teacher and this session is going to be on embracing joy and happiness.
But before we begin I would love to acknowledge a few things.
The practices I share are rooted in ancient mindfulness traditions.
They originated in South and Southeast Asia and I offer them here in a trauma-informed secular way.
I also just want to remind you that this space is yours.
There's nothing you need to get right,
Nothing you need to push through.
You are in full control of your experience.
My guidance is just an invitation.
Your body and your spirit get the final say.
And now as we begin I invite you to find a comfortable position either sitting or lying down and if you're comfortable with closing your eyes gently do so or you can just soften your gaze.
Take in a full deep breath and as you exhale release any tension or worries that you may be carrying with you.
This is your time to simply be.
Maybe you can let go of the demands and the expectations of the outside world.
In this moment there's no need to rush or achieve anything.
Maybe set aside any thoughts of past or future and grant yourself the gift of being fully here right now.
As you breathe in feel a sense of calm and clarity washing over you.
Notice how your chest and abdomen expand as you take in the breath that sustains you.
And as you breathe out let go of any tension or worry that may be still lingering.
Let's start by bringing attention to your body.
Notice any sensations or feelings present within you.
Be curious about what's happening in your physical being.
Are there any areas of tension or relaxation?
Simply observe without judgment allowing yourself to be fully present in this moment.
Feel the gentle rhythm of your breath as it moves in and out of your body.
Maybe you can notice the coolness of the air as you inhale and the warmth as you exhale.
Take the next few moments to fully experience each breath.
Anchoring yourself in this present moment.
As you continue to breathe become aware of any emotions that may be present with you.
Notice if there is a particular emotion that stands out.
Whether it's joy,
Happiness,
Contentment,
Or even a subtle sense of unease.
Acknowledge the presence of these emotions without trying to change or suppress them.
Embrace them with a sense of acceptance and compassion.
Allow your awareness to expand beyond your body and the emotions into your surroundings.
Notice any sounds around you.
The gentle hum of the environment,
The chirping of birds,
Or even the rustling of leaves.
Allow these sounds to be a reminder of the beauty around you.
As you continue to breathe and observe,
Bring to mind a moment of pure joy and happiness that you may have experienced in your life.
It could be a simple moment of laughter,
A beautiful sunset,
Or the embrace of a loved one.
Allow this memory to come alive within you.
Feel the emotions associated with that moment as if you're reliving it right now.
Allow the joy and happiness to fill your entire being.
Now,
Gently release that memory and return to the present moment.
Recognize that joy and happiness are not limited to certain experiences or external conditions.
They can be found within you at any given moment.
Take a moment to appreciate the simple joys that exist in your life right now.
The warmth of the sun on your skin,
The taste of a delicious meal,
Or even the sound of your own laughter.
In this moment,
Embrace the awareness that happiness can be found in the smallest of things.
It's not always tied to grand achievements or monumental events.
Rather,
It manifests in the everyday moment,
And that usually goes unnoticed.
It's the warmth of a cozy blanket,
The soothing rhythm of raindrops on a window,
Or the genuine smile exchanged with a loved one.
Take a moment to immerse yourself in these simple pleasures,
Relishing in the serenity and contentment they bring.
In this space of appreciation,
Allow gratitude to fill your heart,
Acknowledging the blessings that are present in your life,
Both big and small.
Give yourself permission to open yourself up to the abundant joy and happiness that is always within your reach.
As this practice draws to an end,
I invite you to take a deep breath in and exhale slowly,
Allowing yourself to ground and integrate the feelings of joy and happiness within you.
When you are ready,
Slowly open your eyes.
Take a moment to stretch your body and thank yourself for being here today.
Carry this awareness with you as you go about your day,
Knowing that you have the ability to embrace joy and happiness in every moment.
It has been my honor to guide you today.
I am grateful for the path,
The practice,
And most of all,
You,
The community.
Until next time.
