This second element employs the power of breath to help you take your awareness away from what is going on around you and draw it deep within you. 

As we discussed in Stage 5, our deeper awareness is not stored in our brain but in our gut. Thus, to plug into our subliminal memories and beliefs, including our shadow, we need to access the feelings in our gut. One of the most effective ways to do this is through a series of deep belly breaths.

This technique is similar to the one you used in Stage 4 to instantly reduce stress—except this time, each time you breathe into your belly for a count of 5, you’ll envision inhaling a tremendous amount of light energy through your nostrils. Feel this light permeate every part of your body, cleansing and accepting you just as you are.

As you hold the breath for a count of 15, direct all your attention toward your belly. Notice if there are any dark feelings down there. You may feel them as blockages or shadows. Then, visualise the light you have breathed in dissolving the blockages and bringing light to the shadows. 

Then, as you breathe out for a count of 10, visualise yourself bringing any remaining dark shadows up into your heart. Visualise your heart welcoming them home after a long absence.

Repeat this process several times (five breath cycles is ideal). 

Practise this acceptance breathing at least three times a day.