Breathing – The Video

This video is from my dharma brother Joe Reilly. Joe is a singer, songwriter, and educator. I wish him great success.

He is a young member of the Order of Interbeing started by Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh (known as Thay by his followers) in 1966. I am truly happy to see such wonderful, mindful music to appear on the mindfulness scene.

In an email to the members of the Order of Interbeing, Joe said,

The sun is shining through my window, reflecting sparkly light on the snow-covered earth. This Michigan winter has humbled me, and brought me back to a place of gratitude for the simple joys of life, like my ability to breathe and smile (and be warm) in this moment.

I am excited to share this video of my song Breathing with you, from my Greyhound Bus Tour album. The smiles and community represented in it are gentle reminders for me that when I slow down and pay attention to my breath, I become fully present with those around me and I am able to live and act from a place of love and strength. I hope that this video may also water positive seeds in you; of hope, happiness, and confidence in your path.

I wrote the song while participating in the winter retreat at Plum Village a few years ago. Please share with your Sanghas if it may be supportive to your practice.

There are so many reasons to be happy in this moment! I invite you to take a 7-minute pause from your day, breathe, smile, and take refuge in your capacity to love.

Breathing with you!

Joe

True Ocean of Grace

Thay, our teacher, sometimes jokes about all that he teaches is breathing in and breathing out! He encourages us to add a smile to our breathing. It can’t hurt, and he calls it, “Mouth yoga!” This always produces a gentle laugh for the sangha.

Breathing in and knowing that you are breathing in is the very first teaching of the Buddha, along with breathing out and knowing your are breathing out. I’m sure you will enjoy The First Mindfulness Meditation Practice as well as the other five – see also, the first tab below.

Would you please watch the video and share it with your friends on Facebook, Pinterest, and other social media? I’d like to see more than 10,000 views by the end of the week.