How to do centering prayer

While written prayers clarify the mind, centering prayer gives you a chance to practice centering the meditations of your heart.

Centering prayer is simple, and there are no real rules. The aim is to strengthen the inner space of peace by sitting in stillness with the Lord.

Consider these tips:

– Find a place where you won’t be disturbed, and resume a position where your body can be relaxed, and your mind remains aware.

– Close your eyes or gaze at something neutral, and open your heart to meet with God.

– Choose a word, phrase, or image from Scripture and practice holding it in your mind as the central subject as you let the rest of your thoughts go.

– You may also use your breath, using the rhythm of the inhale, exhale to regulate your spirit with the steadfastness of God.

– Use your breath or word/image as your anchor point to return to when your thoughts stray.

– Try for as little as one minute or as long as you need.

How many breaths can you count before your mind starts to wander? This is how scientists actually measure mindfulness, so that could be a fun exercise to try as well.

As you continue in your dedicated practice, you will notice yourself returning to this space of growing peace throughout the day to meet with the Lord and find your peace increasingly in Him.