Meditation Monday. Let Things Be, with Ashley Turner.

Initial Setup

Ashley Turner begins by instructing listeners on how to set up their meditation space. She emphasizes the importance of finding a comfortable position, whether sitting on a chair, cushion, or blanket, and ensuring the hips are slightly elevated to promote relaxation. Turner also guides listeners to bring their attention inward and observe their body's current state, noting any areas of tension or stress 1.

Slowly bring yourself into a comfortable position. Take your time to really set yourself up in your meditation seat. You can sit on a chair, leaning back into a chair or leaning into a wall. You can sit on a meditation cushion, a blanket. In any case, notice the hips are a little bit elevated, a little bit higher than the knees and the legs. This will help keep the blood circulation and your body a little bit more relaxed.

--- Ashley Turner

This initial setup is crucial for creating a conducive environment for meditation and helps in achieving a state of calm and focus.

   

Breath Focus

Turner then shifts the focus to the breath, guiding listeners through a series of deep breaths to promote relaxation. She explains how to fill the lungs and belly with air and then exhale slowly, creating more space and ease in the body. This practice of breath focus helps in reducing physical tension and mental stress 2.

Taking three long, slow, deep breaths to begin inhaling. Draw all the way down, filling the lungs, filling the belly, belly widening and soften and exhale as you're ready, creating even more space as you exhale.

--- Ashley Turner

By concentrating on the breath, listeners can cultivate a sense of radical acceptance, allowing them to let go of control and simply let things be as they are.