I was trying to be still with God after asking a question, but other thoughts kept invading. So, I closed my eyes, and while I took several deep breaths, I instinctively chanted, “Take a breath with God.” While I usually start my meditation with one or two deep, slow breaths, this was the first time I felt compelled to chant those words.[1] As I recited “take a breath with God,” God responded by reminding me of my exercise breathing.
I have tried many forms of exercise—aerobics, yoga, Pilates, cardio, strength training. Each mode requires intentional breathing specific for its type. My favorite mode is strength training with occasional cardio mixed in. (Call me crazy, but I like dumbbells and barbells and kettlebells, med balls and slam balls, cables and ropes and resistance bands.) For strength training, the recommended breathing is inhale on the recovery and exhale on the exertion.[2] The inhalation fuels the muscles with oxygen in preparation for the effort; the exhalation stabilizes the core and protects against light-headedness that may occur if I held my breath.[3] Exhalation also removes the CO2 that builds up. I breathe in to feed and ready my muscles. I breathe out to center myself and release. My meditative breathing serves the same purpose as my exercise breathing.
When I breathe in with God, I am fueling my body and my spirit. The slow inhalation stills me and prepares me to receive, to listen, and to commune. When I inhale, God feeds me with His peace and calm; His truth and goodness; His blessing and forgiveness; and His inspiration. My inhale is my prayer to God: “Here I am Lord. I am ready. Please prepare me for Your presence.”
My exhaling breath with God serves a similar function as my exercise exhale. The slow exhalation stills me and allows me to live in that moment with God. The exhalation releases tension and focuses me. I breathe out that which hinders my progress—any toxins that may be in my spirit. My exhale is my thanks to God: “Lord, I release all negativity allowing You space in me. Thank you for being with me and filling me.”
“The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.” (Job 33:4 NIV) I am thankful for the breath God continues to breathe into me. I need to take advantage of that breath of life. It has been made clear to me that it is those times when I do not take that meditative breath that I am easily distracted. Thus, I must exercise my meditative breathing to remain centered on God. I will take a breath with God.
Reflection: How do you center yourself before entering your sacred space with God?
[1] AHA-the Holy Spirit speaking to my soul, but that’s another blog.
[2] I am not a doctor or fitness guru, so I am not offering workout advice. To learn more about proper breathing for your exercise mode, do your own research.
[3] Here’s Why the Way You Breathe During a Workout Matters | SELF
Sabrina this is an excellent way to begin one’s meditation. You have also given us
a vehicle to combat the distractions that fog our spiritual path take time and “breathe” . . . Thank you!
Your Pastor,
Rev. Dr. Cross
Your process for meditation and exercise is insightful. Now that I think back to those days of working out, it hits me like a ton of bricks what you are saying. Exercise is good for the body and meditation is GREAT for the soul.
Thank you! I’m waiting for the Book of DND Devotions. You are a blessing!