Being in the Moment (with Music)

Time is measured in three realms, past moments, present moments, (drums softly thumping) and future moments. If we get trapped in the past moments, we can become troubled or depressed. If we get trapped in future moments, we can become worried or anxious. (drums softly thumping) But if we can focus on the present moment, the actual moment we are in, then we can find solace, in focusing on being kind to ourselves and care for ourselves. During our time here, we will try to focus on something that keeps us in the present moment at all times. Our breath. Being in the moment, being present with yourself, in the breath will calm your mind. Connect you to your emotions and spirit. This will result in relaxing your physical self. (drums softly thumping) Taking time to meditate is a deliberate action to take the time to care for yourself, develop your own way of rejuvenating or connecting through breath and meditation. This is an act of self kindness. Don't concern yourself with technique. There's no wrong way to do a kind thing. First, let's begin by making ourselves comfortable. Not too comfortable in such a way that we drift off to sleep. Some like to sit in their favorite chair, have their feet planted flat on the floor with their palms up on their lap. Some like to sit on the floor cross-legged. You choose. And next time, try something else until you find what's right for you. Gently close your eyes, if you're comfortable doing so, or focus on one spot or object in the room. Let's try to pay attention to where we start to notice our body and begin to relax. Roll your shoulders slowly, backward in a gentle rotation. And then forward. Next, gently drop your chin to your chest. And then straight back as you are looking into the sky. Now, tilt your head from side to side slowly until you feel the gentle stretch. (drums softly thumping) Try to relax your muscles. As you continue this meditation, your body will naturally relax, become conscious of your breathing. Notice how your breath flows like waves on a shore. In and out. You have been breathing since the moment you were born. Your body knows when to breathe. How fast to breathe, how deeply. There is no need to make any effort to change your breathing in any way. Take a moment to notice how your body breathes. We have eyes in our four realms, the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual eyes. As you sit there quietly, use your mind's eye to follow your breathing, flowing gently in and out of your body. Your attention will wander. As it does, bring the focus back again on your breathing. (drums softly thumping) Thoughts will come and go. Simply let the thoughts pass. Notice how your breathing continues to flow. Reaching every part of your being in a calm and consistent manner. Breathing also comes in four quadrants. Beginning...