The First Step

Whatever your reason may be, whether it is pain, stress, suffering, sickness, or like most right now, trying to get through the trials we are facing as united humanity: this sentiment is aimed to alleviate some of this obstacle.

Welcome to a stepping stone on the path to healing; a slow, but rewarding process. Join me, on this walk towards clarity, hope, and peace.

As you prepare to step outside, wear whatever you feel comfortable in. Sandals or sneakers, loose or tight fit clothing; wear what you think will help you breathe and resonate with the Earth.

When opening the door, and taking your first step into the open air, allow yourself to be filled with the light of a new day. As your pupils constrict to welcome the rays of the sun, imagine your skin absorbing the light and filling your body. You are here, you are alive.

Take in a deep breath of air through your nose, and feel your lungs expand as they open your rib cage. Lightly place your hands wherever you feel your breath the strongest; your abdomen or your stomach, somewhere you can feel the movement of your body accepting the air.

Begin to walk, briskly or slowly; you may choose your own pace. Let your body guide you and feel each step grounding you to the Earth. The soles of your feet pressing on your shoes, beating like a drum on the ground. Feel the rhythm as the oxygen you inhale finds your muscles and helps them move your limbs effortlessly.

--Breathe in through the nose, and release through the mouth.

Try to concentrate on the sound of your breathing, as well as your feet connecting with the ground. It is okay to welcome other sounds; the birds above you, the rustle of trees, cars on the street, but always return to the beat of your walking, your contribution to the drum played by you and nature around you.

--Breathe in through the nose, and release through the mouth.

If your mind wanders, acknowledge the worries or thoughts briefly, and refocus on your beat. Remember you have taken this time for yourself, there is no guilt in shutting off overbearing thoughts for a few moments in your day.

--Take a deep breathe in through the nose, and release through the mouth.

You may walk this same route once in a while or even every day, but try to notice: is there anything different about it today? There should be one thing. You are here, and you are sharing the connection with the living world.

--Rejoice in this knowledge, and breathe in through the nose, and release through the mouth.

Recognize this huge success and smile as you continuously fill with light, air, and sound. Remember this feeling as a safe place, somewhere you can come to in moments of grief or anxiety. A place where you can reconnect.

--Breathe in through the nose, and release through the mouth.

Now release all concentration, and let the mind wander. If it wants to think, let it think. If it wants to worry, let it worry. Like the snap of a stretched rubber band, imagine those feelings released into the air. Let your thoughts pull you towards whatever you subconsciously are feeling.

Stop walking and inhale deeply, again through your nose sucking in the sweet air. Exhale and expel all the negative thoughts. Then, re-ground yourself.

Start to walk and feel the beat you create simultaneously with the Earth… and congratulate yourself. Realize that you opened your mind to stress and were able to overcome it.

You have now reached and overcome the greatest obstacle, your mind. With this feat, your day is now set up for continued success. Acknowledging your small triumphs will help you to leap bounds towards any goal you have. Use this as a lesson towards everyday struggles.

Now take a minute to notice how you are feeling. Are you tired and content? Are you rejuvenated and invigorated? Whatever it may be, thank yourself for taking the time to listen to your body and provide what it needs most: self-care.