Silent Prayers

I find my prayers being less words and more breath and silence. Growing up, I was taught prayers, and they were great for focusing my attention. I found a lot of peace in praying the Rosary.

At a certain point, though, words just aren't as adequate as sitting in emotion and intention with God. I remember when I gave birth to Alafair. It was so difficult that I had no words. I did have tears, though.

Someone, maybe a priest--I don't know--came to visit me in my hospital room. For some reason, that's disjointed in my memories, he said that tears were as much a prayer as words. I've kept that thought with me through my yoga practice. Yogis focus on quieting the mind and setting intentions, and much of that is done without words. It's accomplished through focused breath and intentionally calming the nervous system.

From that calmness seems to flow all the silent prayers. In the silence I also receive the support I need.