One of the aspects of centering prayer that I love the most is its approach to sitting (I know, I know — exciting, right?).
Many forms of silent meditation emphasize complete stillness. Centering prayer is a little more realistic — a little more for “the rest of us.” You see, I’m an incorrigible fidgeter, so I used to always feel defeated after some type of sitting meditation. I had always needed to shift at least a little bit.
With centering prayer, if your attention is pulled to an ache or a pain, then shift. It’s okay. Just try to settle back down again. Think of your chosen prayer word. Breathe easy.
Also, if you find yourself feeling “strange” — perhaps you feel a sensation of lightness or heaviness, maybe you begin to feel your heart beating, maybe sounds become pronounced and distracting — just chalk it up to the strangeness of stopping long enough to be aware of your body and its sensations. Then, let it go. Return to your prayer word. No worries.
So, next time you pray, if your nose itches…scratch it and rest easy.