Mind and breath. Connected both physically and metaphorically. Without one, the other disappears. Mind supports breath and breath supports mind. We are all on a spectrum here. Sometimes they work together and support each other, sometimes not so much. Often the mind wanders off and the breath is forgotten.

Find some quiet and gather the mind and breath. Notice the chest rise and fall. Allow the mind space to roam but just watch it as you focus on the sensations of the chest as the breath transpires. Do this repeatedly, 3 minutes a day or one or two breaths, once or twice a day. 

Then smile. 

Congratulations, you have dropped your ego clinging for a moment. Now the project is to string those moments of dropping ego clinging together closer and closer. 

I hope you have an awesome day!

Credits — Training in Compassion: Zen Teachings on the Practice of Lojong by Norman Fischer

Credits — The 59 Lojong Slogans - Atisha's mind-training techniques. Commentary by Judy Lief Tricycle Magazine 2010

This journal is meant as a reminder to my future self. A reminder to him how to operate in the world with love and compassion and some tips put together in a moment of clarity to help him when he is less clear and caught up in stuff the he can’t control.  Continue the conversation anytime: will@kestrelcreek.com.