I have the amazing good fortune of waking up in Santa Fe, New Mexico this morning. I answered the call to go sit outside and watch the sunrise for about 90 minutes. The air is so crisp and clean. The sun faithfully rose, slowly, steadily, and suddenly so brightly it became blinding.
As I sat in the (initially dark) quiet I was reminded of a simple meditation that can be done anywhere, anytime. In one breath, a sense of well being can be restored by remembering, and even saying these words aloud.
On the in breath, close your eyes and inhale as deeply as you can saying the words “I am open to everything.” As you breathe in, imagine that you are allowing everything, just as it is, to be present in your experience of this one fleeting moment.
On the out breath, continue with closed eyes, or open them if you wish, as you slowly exhale and say the words “I am attached to nothing.” As you do so let go of everything, every thought, every opinion, as if you are completely surrendering to the experience and letting it pass, just as it is. No control, no anticipation of the next moment, just a compete acceptance of what is, right now.
Repeat often: At your desk, on a walk, in a bathroom stall, while lighting a candle, while paying a bill, or sitting at a stop light. Come back to yourself by accessing the peace that is already here. This is a quick return to equanimity when things are off balance, or when stillness is so perfect that you want to be present and not miss it.
It may not heal the world, but if you are so inclined, give it a try and see if you can access the peace that surrounds us at every moment, always available, no special skills required.
