What spiritual practices are giving life to your soul right now?
Spiritual practices are not disciplines to be checked off, to complete in order to be “good” or to earn love. I find these sacred rhythms ground me, remind me of the magnificent of God and all the wonders and holiness of God. I remember to pause and give thanks. I ask forgiveness. I bow in reverence. I serve. I love. I draw near and am renewed. I am one with the One. My focus in less on me and more on the More.
I am not rigid with a spiritual practices schedule but use the word “regular.” But I do find it helpful at times to pause and take an inventory what is working and maybe what isn’t working in my spiritual life. What am I forgetting? Neglecting? Pushing aside? Or need more of? Is it time to try a new practice? Stretch myself into a new arena?
When I paused and honestly reviewed my practices this past week, I found myself “too busy” for longer contemplative prayer – a practice that nourishes my spirit. I intentionally began once again last week longer silent prayer each morning. I love the app on my phone called “Centering Prayer” which can be set for any length of time. It offers an opening and closing prayer and sound and timer. This holy time of stillness and silence settles my soul and begins my day in peace.
Another practice is my annual silent retreat. In fact I leave this week to attend a four day one at one of my favorite retreat centers. I may also try a two-day time away at a hermitage later this summer just on my own. A time of listening to God, nature, and my own heart. A time of rest and journaling and I hope this year a little art.
Breath prayer is another spiritual practice that refreshes my spirit. A breath prayer is a very short prayer that can be said in one breath and repeated throughout the day. It is an ancient form of prayer, found in writings as early as the second century. The prayer communicates a sense of nearness with trust and dependency on God. Breath prayers have been a major practice this year.
I was surprised to see that a book I wrote about breath prayers in 2016 just celebrated its birthday in March – Whispers – Being With God in Breath Prayers. Happy Birthday, Whispers!
I can’t finish a post about spiritual practices without mentioning my latest practice God has placed on my heart – looking up. I have heard these two words continually in 2025. I think this is in response to all the mess in this world/our country right now and to be honest sadness in my own life. God is reminding me to keep my eyes on Him. To look up. The very act of raising my chin, my eyes towards lifts my spirit and gives me hope. This practice is a bodily prayer that fills my soul with light.
It’s all prayer, isn’t it? All the practices are connecting with God- a form of prayer. I am so grateful we can have a relationship with our wonderful, amazing Creator! Thanks be to God!
What spiritual practice is life giving to you right now?
I love your spiritual practice of looking up. It sounds so simple to do, yet it can have profound impact.
My meditation practice is hit and miss, so for March, I decided to commit to just 5 minutes every day. I’ve been able to keep it so far, and even 5 minutes has been helpful.
yes it is simple but so powerful too. Your meditation practice is like my contemplative prayer – only works when I do it and do it regularly.
I find the concept of the breath prayer so appealing, especially at this time in my life when stress has seemed to be my constant companion in one form or another. I also need to keep looking up, expecting the best from our loving Father always. He is always ready to listen, to aid and to comfort. May He bless you for all the inspiration you give to all of us, Jean!
Breath breath slows me know and helps me hear. I know it is a practice that helps my soul so much. Glad it helps you too. Blessings, Martha!!
Thank you for sharing about your spiritual practices, Jean. We share several in common. Some time ago (I can’t remember just when) I began praying on my knees again–something I haven’t done for decades. I’ve found that my mind stays focused so much better than when seated in a chair. It’s a spiritual practice I’m glad to have revisited, though at my age, who knows how much longer the old knees will cooperate!
I knew we would have many in common! Not sure I could pray long on my knees anymore though I have this great kneeing bench I would love to use. I wonder if I could get a pad for it?? May have to find one. You inspire me!
And you inspire me, Jean!