In this meditation, we return once again to the basic form of contemplative practice—the simple, foundational method that helps us cultivate awareness, relaxation and presence.
Whether you are beginning meditation for the first time, returning after time away, or simply wishing to deepen your existing practice, this meditation offers a gentle way back to the essentials.
Beginning with a simple ritual gesture, we settle into a stable posture, become aware of the breath, and gradually relax the body. We gently observe our thoughts and emotions without judgement before returning to the quiet centre of awareness that lies beneath them all.
This returning to the foundations strengthens the essential skills of meditation: letting go of distraction, anchoring ourselves in the present moment, and opening ourselves to divine presence through the breath.
This meditation supports mindfulness, contemplative prayer, stress relief, emotional grounding and developing a consistent daily meditation practice.
It can be used by beginners learning the foundations of meditation or by experienced practitioners wishing to renew and strengthen their practice.
00:00 – Introduction: Returning to the basic form
00:51 – Opening bell
01:04 – Entering the sacred space of meditation
01:52 – Ritual gesture and settling into posture
02:25 – Grounding through the body
03:08 – Breathing out tension, breathing in peace
03:58 – Checking in with the body
04:45 – Relaxing the whole body
05:34 – \"I have a body, but I am more than my body\"
06:00 – Observing thoughts and emotions
06:57 – \"I am more than my thoughts and emotions\"
07:19 – Resting in the still point of the breath
08:05 – \"I am I\" – resting in awareness
08:47 – Returning to the present moment
09:34 – Resolution for the day
10:05 – Closing bell