Being in the Here and Now
(The directions for prayer here are given in the subjunctive singular, but most of the methods suggested could also be used in groups.)
Sit and calm yourself. Take a comfortable posture, with your feet flat on the floor if you are seated on a chair, and keep your back straight. Close your eyes.
Become aware of the fact that you are breathing. Do not manipulate your breathing. Just be aware that you are breathing in and out. As you breathe out, relax the various parts of your body: have you closed your eyes too tight? Relax your facial muscles. You can actually let go of your lower jaw without opening your mouth. Enjoy the moment.
Relax your neck, your shoulders, and above all your stomach. Keep your back straight.
Keep paying attention to your breathing. Each time you realise your mind has gone wandering, bring back your attention to your breathing. Just be here and now! And do this gracefully and serenely. Be here. Be still and know that I am God (Ps 46:10)!
As you become aware of the distractions, perhaps you want to ask yourself: what is God trying to tell me through these floating thoughts?
Now and then become aware of your feelings. How do you feel? What is God trying to tell you through these feelings?
End the exercise by making an offering of the time that you have spent as a humble gift to God.