10.5 Meditation for Teens & Adults: "Discover Tranquility & Treasures: Meditative Stroll Through SF's Richmond neighborhood"

This is a GUIDED MEDITATION created exclusively for our teen and adult subscribers. Because why should younger kids have all the fun with meditations, right?

This month's journey takes us through San Francisco's Richmond neighborhood, from Lands End, to Sutro Baths, to Golden Gate Park to the special corner on Balboa Street and 19th Ave with The Coffee Movement, Han Il Kwan Korean restaurant and Wood Goods and Hot Sauce shop.

Enjoy this guided visualization as you travel through one of the city's iconic areas. Discover new places or relish in the joy of listening to your familiar haunts.

In this calming experience, listeners are gently guided into a serene moment, directing their attention to the rhythm of their breath as they immerse themselves in the soothing tones of the guided meditation. Perfect for those moments when you need to unwind, restore, and hit the reset button. So, find a comfortable space, take a deep breath, and let this guided meditation be your companion to tranquility.

Intro/Outro music by Jef Shadoan

Transcript

Welcome to Big Belly Breathing. I'm Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely, and I'm thrilled to guide you on a tranquil journey through the treasure that is the Richmond neighborhood in San Francisco. The Richmond district is a dynamic blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Park. Today, we'll embark on a meditation adventure, focusing on jewels and serenity found within this community. 

Let's begin by finding a comfortable position. Sit or lie down in a quiet space where you can fully immerse yourself in this visualization. Close your eyes and take a deep breath in through your nose, allowing your lungs to fill completely. Hold your breath for a moment, and then exhale slowly through your mouth, releasing any tension or stress you may be carrying. Once more, just like that: big breath, big breath out. 

Now, imagine yourself standing at the edge of Lands End, a breathtaking coastal trail in the Richmond district. Feel the gentle breeze brushing against your skin as you gaze out over the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Inhale deeply, taking in the salty scent of the sea mingled with the earthy fragrance of the nearby cypress trees. Gaze out towards the Golden Gate bridge and slowly exhale.

With each breath, feel a sense of peace wash over you. Visualize the shimmering surface of the water reflecting the sky above, reminding you of the endless possibilities that lie ahead. As you continue to breathe deeply, allow yourself to become fully present in this moment, appreciating the beauty that surrounds you. 

Next, you travel to the historic Sutro Baths, a magnificent ruin of what was once a grand public bathhouse. As you explore the remains, feel the history beneath your feet and the mystery in the air. The sound of waves crashing against the rocks creates a soothing rhythm, helping you to feel grounded and connected to the earth. The salty sea breeze gently brushes against your skin, carrying with it the faint scent of ocean spray. You hear the distant call of seagulls and the whispering wind weaving through the ruins, each sound a reminder of the past mingling with the present. The sunlight glimmers on the water's surface, casting a golden glow over the ancient stones, inviting you to reflect on the beauty and resilience of this treasured place.

Now, make your way to Golden Gate Park, a sprawling urban oasis filled with lush gardens, tranquil lakes, and vibrant meadows. Walk along the pathways lined with towering trees, feeling the cool shade on your skin. The scent of blooming flowers and freshly cut grass fills the air, inviting you to relax and enjoy the serenity of this green haven. You pause at the giant windmill, listening to the birds and the rustling of leaves.

Your journey continues, away from the beach, back to Balboa Street and 19th Avenue, a special corner in the mid Richmond, where the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee from The Coffee Movement fills the air. The comforting scent of roasted beans from this gem of a coffee shop, envelops you, bringing warmth and coziness to your senses. You take a deep breath, letting the fragrance of the coffee invigorate your spirit. 

As you stroll along the sidewalk, the enticing smell of Korean food wafting from the nearby restaurant Han Il Kwan tickles your nose. The combination of sizzling meats, tangy kimchi, and savory spices creates a mouthwatering symphony of flavors, making your stomach growl in anticipation. The air is alive with the smell of the ocean and good food.

You continue your walk and stumble upon a charming store named "Wood Goods and Hot Sauce." The storefront is inviting, with shelves displaying an array of artisanal products.  You peruse everything, admiring the vibrant colors of the many hot sauce bottles. One bottle catches your eye – a locally made sauce that promises a perfect balance of heat and flavor, just what you’ve been hunting for. 

Outside the store, the cool breeze carries the mingling scents of coffee, Korean cuisine, and spicy hot sauce, creating a memorable experience. The distant hum of traffic and MUNI buses blends into a harmonious background, making you feel connected to the special neighborhood. 

For the next few minutes, you simply enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents of the Richmond. With each breath, you feel a sense of gratitude for the joy that surrounds you. Inhale the vibrant energy of the community, and exhale any doubts or fears that may be holding you back.

Now, slowly bring your awareness back to your physical surroundings. Take one more deep breath in, carrying with you the sense of peace you've cultivated during this meditation. Exhale slowly, and when you're ready, gently open your eyes.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through San Francisco's Richmond neighborhood. Carry this feeling of tranquility with you as you continue throughout your day. 

Until next time, remember the BBB motto:

Breathe Move Eat Rest

Respirer Bouger Manger Se Reposer

Thank you! Bye! Ciao! 🌟🌿🌙