A new way of living

"Life is not an emergency...Life is a gift." ~ Ann Voscamp

"Breathing is the bridge between the brain and the body." ~ Dr. John Bocock

Breath prayers combine deep breathing exercises with prayers of meditation on God's Word.  Slow deep breaths help activate the parasympathetic nervous system (our "brake pedal"), slowing the heart rate and calming the body, while prayer turns the heart towards Christ, focusing the mind on truth and calming the soul.

1. BREATHE

Breathe in deeply and slowly through your nose.  Feel your lungs fill completely.

Focus on filling your lower lungs (your diaphragm) so that your stomach expands while your upper chest remains still.

Breathe out slowly. Empty your lungs fully.

Repeat a few times as you bring your breathing into a slow and steady rhythm.

2.  PRAY

Inhale: Continue breathing slowly as you pray.  Fill your lungs slowly as you say the "inhale" part of the prayer.

Exhale: Empty your lungs slowly as you say the "exhale" part of the prayer.

Meditate on the words as you breathe to the rhythm of the prayer.

3. REPEAT

Repeat the breath prayer inhaling and exhaling slowly for at least a minute.

Try to work up to five minutes.

Try this one titled:  You Can Be Still

Inhale:  Be Still My Soul

Exhale: You Are My God

"Be still, and know that I am God". PSALM 46:10

Breath as Prayer by Jennifer Tucker

Click below to hear the audio version of a Breath Prayer: