In this somatic exercise, we are going to focus on our breath as we listen to Psalm 23: The Lord is My Shepherd.
Get comfortable by sitting in a chair or lying flat on the ground. Close your eyes and trust. Take a deep breath in through your nose, and let it fill your body; hold it and hear this:
The Lord is my shepherd;
Exhale softly through your mouth with a sigh.
I have what I need.
Again, take a deep breath in through your nose, letting it fill your body. Hold it and hear this:
He lets me lie down in green pastures;
Exhale softly through your mouth with a sigh.
He leads me beside quiet waters.
Hear this as you take another deep breath in through your nose:
He renews my life;
Exhale softly through your mouth with a sigh.
He leads me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
Know this in the deepest recesses of your body, mind, and soul. Inhale through your nose.
Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger,
Exhale with a soft sigh through your mouth.
For you are with me; your rod and your staff – they comfort me.
Inhale through your nose. Hold it and hear this:
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil;
Exhale with a soft sigh through your mouth. Know this:
My cup overflows.
Hear this as you inhale through your nose. Hold it.
Only goodness and faithful love will pursue me all the days of my life,
Exhale and know this with the deepest core of your being:
I will dwell in the house of the Lord as long as I live.
When you are ready, slowly open your eyes. Take one more deep breath in through your nose and exhale it slowly with a deep sign. Your faith is enough. You are complete.
