“Stop the world; I want to get off!”

~ Mad Magazine

Many years ago I was introduced to yoga. At first the stillness drove me crazy – how could a room full of people just focus on breathing for an entire hour? It took me about four or five classes to start looking forward to the peace and quiet I experienced there. Carving out a space in my busy schedule for regular yoga practice really blesses my life. Tree pose, Pigeon, Plow and Dancer rejuvenate not only my body, but my soul as well. I love taking time to focus on the present moment; to give myself permission to just be.

Quiet meditation is also a beautiful way to begin your day. Here are some ideas you can do within the walls of your own home:

First thing in the morning as you lie in your bed, just as you’re waking up, count your blessings.

Repeat some affirmations –

“Life brings me everything I need, at the perfect time and in the perfect way.”

“Everything happens for a reason.”

“Let go, and let God.”

Find a few that really resonate with you.

Each morning when you roll out of bed, kneel to pray. Or if it’s easier to feel a heavenly connection when you go outside, do that. Pray on your front porch or on the deck. As you talk to God, take in the incredible beauty of the morning sky.

At work, every few hours you may want to take a few minutes to close your eyes and do some deep belly breathing. This gets more oxygen to your brain, clears your mind and helps you focus so you can tackle the rest of the day.

Maybe your favorite place to meditate and contemplate the mysteries of the universe is on a beach or a mountain top, but truly you can pause and relax wherever you are. Several times a day, make it a priority to take a break and remind yourself to just be.

Take time. Be still. Take time to be still.