Birthdays are markers of our progress through life. Birthdays can be the impetus to get going and get the job done; they can also remind us to review our long-range goals.

When we celebrate our annual birthday we may feel a mixture of emotions, such as happiness to have made it this far. Let's try a meditation to deepen the experience of this special day.

Meditation

Begin by sitting up straight in your special place. If you have an altar, light a new candle in honor of your birthday. If you are sitting on the floor on a cushion fold your legs in and clasp your hands in your lap, or place your hands palms up or palms down on your thighs.

If you are sitting in a chair, sit up straight and place the soles of your feet firmly on the floor. Fold your hands in your lap or place them palms up or palms down on your thighs.

If you wish to meditate outdoors pick a location where you'll have privacy.

Close your eyes and begin regular breathing without stress or force, such as one count to breathe in and one count to breathe out. Continue in this rhythm during your meditation without actually saying the numbers. Do not hold your breath at any point.

Breath is a connection between body and mind; even and regular breathing calm a restless mind and relax an agitated body. Use it any time you need to regain control of yourself.

Turn your thoughts to your birthday. What does this day mean to you? If you have a long-term goal where are you on the timeline? What can you decide to do today that will help you zoom along in an outer goal, or if you are working on spiritual qualities, what steps can you take to accelerate your progress?

Take a few minutes to think over these ideas and after your meditation write out your thoughts in your journal. Putting ideas in writing is a concrete reminder of what you were thinking at the time, and your plans for the future.

Finish your meditation by taking in a deep breath and slowly releasing it. Open your eyes and stretch out. Go on with enjoying your birthday.

Meditation by Susan Helene Kramer

For offline reading

Meditation Lessons for Adults
More than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.

Meditation for all Kids
Sitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.

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