Breath on the Breeze

And in the sweltering mornings of second grade, dear Mrs. Chung would guide us small, sweaty forms toward a soothing stillness.

“Sit & listen,” she would say, “feel a breeze on your skin, crossing your hair, calming your breath, untensing & unteasing your muscles, knuckles, brows, & teeth. Speak now through stillness, and feel the release of heat simply & softly slipping away.

Notice the coolness. Notice the calm. Notice how kind this is. Take it in, savor it, and when you’re ready, offer it out.

Know that this is always available to you. All you need to do is find your breath on the breeze.”

Unbeknownst to my second-grade brain, Mrs. Chung was bestowing us with the basics of what we now call “mindfulness.”

She was granting us a gift; one that is ever-replenishing — the very spring & source of presence, calm, choice, and awe.

I sometimes think back to those early origins of love, particularly on dense, sweat-filled days in humid city centers, and try my best at an impersonation of that angelic shepherd of raucous 7 & 8-year-old new york city public school kids, often more disagreeable than naught, but deserving of love nonetheless.

And so, I guide my bustling, sweltering mind to a space not unlike that classroom — no a/c, packed too full — but still, willing, and even grateful, to find my breath on the breeze.

Thank you, Mrs. Chung.

A Reflection for Your Week

What is one cherished way that you find your calm, your cool, & your center in the middle of life’s summer heat?

Please reflect & reply to this email with whatever you feel inspired to share.

An Invitation for Your Week

This week, find a few moments to 'find your breath on the breeze.' Feel free to listen to the first portion of the audio above.

Notice the sensations that arise and how they affect your state of mind. Jot down & share your experience as well.

Till next week, take care, be kind, do good, & spread love.