I love this verse very much. For a few days, I have read it aloud before meditating. I find that it’s also a beautiful support for my practice of contemplation.
One of the ways I put the verse into practice is by making the gentle effort to come back to it during the day. I take a break regularly from my intellectual work, and bring my attention to the sweetness of the movement of my breath. This pause—resting in the silence of the mind—connects me to a sense of inner clarity. I feel that I am refreshing my mind in the love of the Heart and ensuring that my mind retains its wonderful energy.
Ramonville-Saint-Agne, France
While reading this verse, I noticed how Gurumayi’s Message shows me its meaning. I saw that, for me, the mind’s resting place is its essential core. Now I am more able to choose actions that support me in my daily activities and help me focus on my breath so it flows easily. I am more able to remain at peace when my mind is tied to the easy breath. Even when tasks in front of me seem big, I can stay connected to my breath through this thread of understanding.
Dombivli, India
I feel similar to the bird in this verse from the
Chandogyopanishad. I was recently at work tied to a string of discontent. My mind was flying here and there as I experienced a host of emotions, doubts, and fears while attempting to understand and solve a problem.
This morning, directed by Gurumayi’s Message for 2019 and supported by my breath and the
hamsa mantra, I found repose and courage in the midst of my challenges. I am remembering to have faith and understand that everything will be all right.
Georgia, United States
Recently I have been practicing releasing my mind into the breath and releasing my whole body into the breath. Whenever I remember to do this, I experience letting go of all my worries as my mind "settles down," and I reconnect with my heart.
I am so grateful to have learned this way of connecting to the heart again and again. It is such a blessing!
Sydney, Australia
Because I am a lover of birds, the imagery of this verse appealed to my mind. As I read the verse, my mind—like the tethered bird—settled down and merged into my breath, resting in sweet stillness. The experience was so natural and yet so profound.
Illinois, USA
I am grateful for this reminder to come back to the restful space where I can peacefully settle into the rhythm of life, the rhythm of the breath.
What beauty there is in these verses from the Upanishads!
Clifton Hill, Australia