Breathing in awareness

As we read about and hear about the tragedy that has unfolded and is unfolding in Haiti our thoughts and prayers and love goes out to all those living in the area and to those with family and friends there. Taking a moment to return to ourselves when external circumstances beyond our control seem so disturbing can remind us of where we find our own strength to survive, and the strength to support when we can help. Finding our own breath, 'catching' our breath, brings awareness to the fact that we have been affected, are caring, and can breathe deeply while engaged with difficulty. Sometimes I get that feeling that says, 'Oh yeah, I haven't been breathing because I've been worried', or stressed or 'somewhere else' other than in my body with my breath. So take a moment today to simply turn off the radio or television, the computer and give yourself a chance to return to the depth of your breath for as long as it takes. You'll know. In this way we rejuvenate, and reengage, the very idea of who we are.