~Sarah Bessy’s Field Notes
“These are unusual days, many of us are carrying a lot, and now it is Holy Week. Rather than offer forth a hot take on atonement theory or whatever is keeping the theo-bros busy this week, I personally needed a re-centering on the beautiful and glorious story of Jesus’ final week through scripture, prayer, and a few deep breaths.
Breath Prayer is an ancient form of prayer and it is easily adaptable. Simply choose one or two lines to meditate on and inhale and then exhale through them. It really is that simple.
- You can pray a breath prayer literally anywhere without any special rituals or whatever but I’ve found that I like to find a quiet corner for a few minutes and I usually start by lighting a candle.
- Then just quietly become aware of your body. Sit in a way that is comfortable for you, a position that will allow you to take a deep breath in and out. Close your eyes.
- Imagine a room or a place where you feel safe, your own sanctuary: it can be a real place or one that exists in your imagination.
- Breathe slowly and deeply while holding that place in your mind for a few moments, until you have all the details of it gathered around your soul.
- You’ll enter into your time of prayer or meditation from within that sanctuary.
One historic form of breath prayer is known as The Jesus Prayer.
So, with that as an example, here’s how it works:
Inhale. Fill your whole self with breath. Feel the air in your lungs. And then pray aloud or to yourself:
‘Jesus Christ, son of God,’
Exhale slowly and fully.
‘Have mercy on me.’
And then simply repeat this practice. Start with ten good breaths in and out, with the words being spoken aloud or quietly held in your mind, it’s up to you.
Transition gently from prayer to rising, carrying those words with you through the rest of your day or evening.”