Another in the series of yoga and meditation for the retired person. Much needed after the last couple of weeks. In this one begin by sitting or kneeling with an upright spine. Use a chair for support if you need to. Close your eyes, relax all your facial muscles. Place your hands softly in your lap with your right hand resting in the curve of your left hand.
Gently bring to mind your favourite autumn tree (this is one of mine above). Imagine the colours, the shapes of the leaves, the size of the tree, where it is situated. Tell yourself you are safe and comfortable and that you have time to observe the tree.
Use your imagination to conjure up the sounds that the leaves make as they fall to the earth. Observe the carpet of colours they create.
As each leaf falls, release any tension with a slow out breath and visualise worries, concerns, troubles, problems floating downwards and resting on the carpet of leaves.
Continue for as long as you can, up to 10 to 15 minutes. Then clear your mind by placing your hands over your eyes. Reflect on how you feel.
What a beautiful seasonally appropriate way to meditate! The sounds can become a “mantra”, as you meditate, bringing you back over and over to that central feeling of peace. I like it. I have a favorite tree on a nearby pathway, which has a bench conveniently located beneath it. That’s where I’ll be heading this morning!
Thank you, I finished one of my recent classes with this exercise the class loved it so Mr SH suggested I put in on here