Have you ever noticed what happens between the inhalation and exhalation? Thinking about it makes me hold my breath. But that’s not the point. There’s a natural transition that occurs that is so small it’s hard to perceive. It’s like listening for the sound of crickets at night. We have to stop and give our attention to notice it, even though it’s there all the time.

This meditation technique is very simple: without controlling your breathing, notice what happens when the inhalation stops and the inhalation begins. Then notice the moment the out-breath stops and the in-breath begins. Repeat this several times.

I find that at first the transition is seamless, but as I continue and begin to relax, I become aware of a slight pause between the breaths. As you meditate, imagine the pause is getting longer. Focus on the pause, imagine going into it as if it is a cave of comfort, a place to rest completely. If your mind goes back to thinking, refocus on the space between each breath.

As a mental health professional, an owner of a fitness studio, a writer and a wife, mother and grandmother, I have found meditation to be helpful in every aspect of my life. To find out about my meditation classes this fall, contact me at susanmmorales@yahoo.com or check out my websites: susanscottmorales.com and bodiesinbalancefitness.com