Aden Van Noppen reflects on the idea of impermanence in this mindfulness piece, suggesting that when the world becomes overwhelming, returning to our breath can help us find serenity within ourselves.
In a world defined by constant transformation, Aden Van Noppen encourages us to seek out our sources of stability this week. As the founder and executive director of Mobius—a collaboration aimed at merging the insights of neuroscientists, meditation practitioners, and technology experts to foster well-being—Aden has earned recognition as one of the ten influential women in the mindfulness movement in 2022. In this session, she leads a meditation focused on the theme of impermanence.
A 12-Minute Meditation for Stability During Change
- Begin with a grounding exercise. Shift your focus to the point where you feel most connected to the Earth. It could be the soles of your feet or where you’re seated on a chair or cushion. Spend a moment simply resting your awareness there, feeling the support of the ground, the floor, or the chair embracing you and anchoring you.
- Now, turn your attention to your breath. Take a gentle breath and notice the sensation of inhaling and exhaling, like the rise and fall of a wave. With each inhale, let the wave roll in and then recede with your exhale. There is no need to control this process; just allow it to flow naturally in and out.
- Remember, like waves, no two breaths are identical. Just as every moment is unique, so is each breath. Let each inhale remind you of the notion of impermanence. As you breathe in, softly repeat to yourself, “This breath.” Every breath and moment offers a fresh start. “This breath.” Like a gentle wave.
- As you inhale again, visualize yourself absorbing the nourishing essence of that breath, the vitality it brings, and exhale as if you’re releasing everything unnecessary. In—“Absorbing.” Out—“Releasing.” “Absorbing. Releasing.” This mirrors the cycles we experience in life. “Absorbing. Releasing.” Now combine those thoughts: “This breath. Releasing.”
- As we conclude this meditation, gently redirect your attention from the rhythm of your breath back to the sensation of being anchored, to where your weight connects with the ground—whether in your seat or on your feet.
- Even amid constant change, with its ebbs and flows, our sense of groundedness remains. It is always there, reassuring us that we are supported, even when life shifts from moment to moment.
- When you’re ready, start to bring your awareness back to your surroundings and gently open your eyes. Thank you for taking this time with me.
Stay Updated with New Meditations
Subscribe with your email below to receive new podcast episodes directly in your inbox! You’ll also gain insights from expert mindfulness coaches and access exclusive offers on products, events, and more from Mindful Shop.
The Importance of Sustainable Self-Care
Shelly Tygielski discusses how prioritizing our own needs lays the groundwork for our life’s purpose—supporting others—and offers ways to develop a self-care routine.
Read More
10 Influential Women in the Mindfulness Movement: 2022
In our annual spotlight on women trailblazers in the mindfulness realm, ten women share insights on their journeys toward a purposeful life and the role of happiness in that pursuit.
Read More 