Thursday, April 3, 2025

Pivot

 

Due to an unexpected death in her family,

The person who was supposed to lead the movement portion of our retreat last weekend was unable to attend. 

While she felt comfortable doing creative movement and liturgical dance,

Neither Jes, Heidi (Not The Librarian), or I did. 

 

Sometimes you have to pivot. 

 

On our way down to SC, 

Jes and I consulted YouTube videos and ChatGPT 

To find an activity that we thought would be appropriate for the weekend. 

With the help of the Holy Spirit, 

We were able to pull together a gentle movement meditation

That resonated with a lot of women.

 

Maybe it will resonate with you too.

 

Feel free to use this in your own personal quiet time

Or with a group.

The link to the stretches is at the bottom of this note. 

The pivoted meditation is here for you now. 

 

Opening

 

Begin by standing or sitting comfortably. Close your eyes or soften your gaze. Take a deep breath in… and slowly exhale. Again, breathe in deeply, filling your lungs with fresh morning air… and breathe out, releasing any tension. One more time… breathe in… and breathe out.  

 

As you move and stretch, let your heart settle into God’s presence and release your stress to God. God has given you this day, and God walks with you in it.  

 

Neck Rolls & Shoulder Stretches 

 

At shoulder rolls:

“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10**  

 

Lord, in the stillness of this morning I acknowledge You. You are my refuge and strength. As I stretch, I surrender my worries and plans to You.  

 

Grinder

 

“Truly my soul finds rest in God, my salvation comes from him.” Psalm 62:1

 

God, as I step away from my work today, help me find rest in you. Release me from the burdens of my earthly tasks and let me rejoice in the freedom Of your salvation. 

 

Washing (sprinkle, twist, breathe the dirty water out)

 

After explaining the breathing out:

“Create in me a clean heart, oh God. And renew a right spirit within me.”

 

Lord, as I reflect on your grace, wash me and make me new. Cleanse me from unrighteousness and make me one with you. 

 

Side Stretches & Arm Movements 

 

Start during the overhead arm stretch

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

 

God, thank You for the strength You provide. As I move my body, help me remember that true strength comes from You.  

 

Torso Twists

 

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning.” – Lamentations 3:22-23**  

 

Lord, I receive Your new mercies today. Whatever happened yesterday is behind me. Today is a fresh start in Your love. Thank you. 

 

Leg Stretches

 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Psalm 119:105

 

God, guide my steps today. May I walk in Your light, moving forward in faith, peace, and purpose.  

 

Shake it out

 

“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24

 

Lord, thank You for this day, this body, and this breath. May I glorify You in all I do. 

 

Closing

 

Please slowly Stand, planting your feet firmly, shoulder length apart. Stand still for a moment. Take one more deep breath in… and exhale slowly.  

 

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16

 

Stay in this peace, carrying God’s presence with you as you move through the day.

 

Amen. 

 

https://youtu.be/laIWV6qJWbk

 

No comments:

Post a Comment