ADVENT MEDITATION

TEN MINUTE RETREAT

 A ten-minute retreat can happen anywhere -- in a favorite armchair, at your desk, on a park bench or in your car in the grocery store parking lot.

 Begin with deep breathing.  With each exhale, release tension from your body beginning with your feet and moving upward.  When you reach your shoulders, allow them to drop down, away from your neck.  Let your face muscles relax and go slack.  Take your time on this step.

 Now, imagine the Christmas star shining down on you with the pure light of God's grace.  It forms a dome over you where only peace, joy, love and hope may enter.

 Continue the deep breathing.  Each time you breath, bring God's grace into all parts of your body.  Exhale, and repeat four times. 

Now inhale and feel peace come over you.  Inhale again and feel joy fill you.  Inhale and experience the warmth of Christ's love for you.  Inhale and allow hope to replace the stress and worry you carry.

Repeat, and savor the energy and feelings that are growing in you.

When you are ready, say a prayer of thanks.  Then allow yourself time to enter back into your current reality.

Make a plan to do this at least once a week to keep your spirit merry and bright.

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