Anchoring Through Breath
Tools and Materials:
Something comfortable to sit on (a soft blanket with a pillow or cushion you don't mind taking outside)
A candle (especially if you are indoors, facing the rising sun)
A small offering such as sage, tobacco, or a flower (optional)
Step 1: Preparation
Create a comfortable and sacred space, preferably outdoors. Prepare your offering to honor the greater forces of this world. Once your space is ready, light your candle and take a seat. Gently connect with your offering and say a small prayer for what you are seeking in this ritual space:
"Oh Great One, help bring balance to my life. Relieve my weary soul from life's overwhelming tribulations, if only for this brief moment in time and space."
Softly blow this prayer into your offering and place it in front of you, facing the rising sun or beside your candle.
Step 2: Opening
Begin with a deep inhale through your nose. Focus on the cool air filling and expanding your lungs, letting your stomach rise. Pause briefly at the top of your breath, then exhale naturally, releasing your focus with the breath. Repeat this mindful breathing for seven rounds, gradually deepening each inhale. Conclude with a forceful exhalation and an audible sigh.
Step 3: Core Practice
Take a few natural breaths and tune into any areas of imbalance, emotional overwhelm, or physical tension within you.
Return to your breath with this pattern:
Inhale slowly for a count of ten.
Hold the breath for five counts.
Exhale slowly for a count of ten.
Repeat this cycle 21 times. Next, practice alternate nostril breathing:
Inhale for ten counts while covering your left nostril with your right forefinger.
Hold for five counts, then switch to cover your right nostril with your right thumb.
Exhale for ten counts.
Inhale through the same side, switch, and repeat for at least 21 cycles.
Finally, return to natural breathing, letting go of the count. Simply feel the air moving through your nostrils, filling your lungs, and spreading through your body.
Step 4: Integration
As you relax into these sensations, gently close your eyes if they aren’t already. Lay back and continue following your breath. Notice how you feel—lighter, calmer, and more balanced. Remember, this state is always accessible to you. Stay in this peaceful space for as long as needed.
Step 5: Closing
When you feel ready, sit up and face the sun or your candle. Offer this prayer or something similar:
"I give thanks to the sun that warms our breath. I give thanks to the trees that cleanse our breath. I give thanks to the air that creates my breath. I give thanks to myself for creating a space within where I can sit calm and balanced. May this peace ripple through me and to all those around me."
Take your offering in your hands and blow it towards the sun or candle with the full force of your breath.