God created the world through words. Words are formed by
breath passing through our vocal cords. Then it was God’s breath that
took humans from clay and made them into living beings. When we breathe
we become aware of our connectedness to God’s breath of life. We feel
the peace of God’s presence and experience the very life giving nature
of God.
Basic Technique
This is the
most basic and simplest of all prayer forms. Simple breathing in and
out focuses on the life giving breath of God. We inhale the goodness of
God and exhale whatever is not of God.
Babies
Try to match your
breathing with that of your baby. Breath in all that is of God (peace,
health, rest, happiness) and breath out your fears and concerns for the
well being of the baby. Focus on God’s power to bring good life and
protection to the baby. Hold the baby on your chest and breath in and
out as above. As you watch the baby rise and fall with your chest,
remember that your prayers have an impact on the life of the baby, just
as your breath does.
Toddlers
As the child breaths
in and out have them lift their arms up and down or crouch down in a
ball and then stand with hands lifted over their head. Repeat several
times. Give the child a pinwheel and as they blow it, remind them that
God’s breath gives them life and keeps them protected. The pinwheel is
pretty and it reminds them how nice life is with God.