Breathing Joy Into Your Day: A Practice in Honor of Buffy

Some souls leave a mark so bright that even when they’re no longer here, their light keeps shining, guiding us to live fuller, more present lives. Buffy Pilloud Shaver was one of those souls—a beloved teacher, a deeply compassionate friend, and a radiant spirit in our community who transitioned on May 21st. She had a way of reminding us that joy and presence aren’t just ideas; they’re practices we bring into every moment.

In her honor, today’s Mindful Monday is about inviting more joy and energy into your body—and your life—through a gentle, accessible breathing practice she loved and introduced to me: Breath of Joy.

WHAT IS BREATH OF JOY?

Breath of Joy is simple but powerful. It’s a rhythmic breathing exercise combined with gentle arm movements that helps you wake up your body, release tension, and open to the fresh pulse of life. Whether you’re sitting in a chair or standing up, it’s easy to do, and it reminds you to breathe fully into the present moment.

Here’s how you do it:

1. Take your first inhale, reaching your arms straight out in front of you.

2. On the second inhale, open your arms out to the sides.

3. On the third inhale, lift your arms all the way overhead.

4. Then with one long exhale, fold forward—letting your arms and torso come down as far as feels good for you.

You repeat this cycle a few times, syncing breath and movement. And then—you pause. Notice how your body feels. Can you feel energy buzzing or a lightness where there was heaviness? That little vibration of joy pulsing inside? That’s the practice working in you.

WHY THIS MATTERS.

Breath of Joy isn’t just about feeling good for a moment. It’s an invitation to step into your authentic self, to release shame and tension held in your body, and to welcome joy as a natural state of being. Breath connects you to the present moment, grounding you in what’s real and alive right now. It helps you tune into your body’s wisdom and strength—the same wisdom Buffy carried so gracefully.

When you breathe fully and express yourself honestly, without self-judgment, you begin to shed the layers of shame and doubt that may have held you back. This gentle flow of breath and movement can be a surprising gateway to healing and empowerment. It’s a practice of vulnerability that creates space for more love and joy to grow, both inside you and in connection with the community around you.

LIVING BUFFY’S LEGACY: MINDFULNESS AND CONNECTION

Buffy taught by example—that joy, gratitude, and presence aren’t separate from life’s inevitable struggles. They are what sustain us through them. When you take a moment for Breath of Joy, you’re not just honoring her memory; you’re inviting her spirit into your life and allowing it to heal and uplift you.

Consider making Breath of Joy part of your regular routine—maybe before you start your day or whenever you need a mindful reset. If standing or folding feels challenging, try doing it seated in a chair or adapting the movements so they fit your body.

You’re not alone on this path. Healing and growth happen best in community. The support of others can nurture your practice and your spirit. Whether through gentle yoga, chair yoga, meditation, or the Authentic Living Circle, leaning into that collective energy can amplify joy and ease anxiety.

TAKE THIS MOMENT FOR YOURSELF

Right now, take a slow, deep breath. Feel the air moving in and out, the rise and fall of your chest, the subtle pulse of life running through you. This breath is a small gift to yourself—a moment of presence and care.

If you want to explore breathing practices, gentle yoga, or meditation more deeply, consider scheduling a class or joining the Authentic Living Circle. These spaces are designed to support you in shedding shame, building resilience, and living your truth with courage and compassion.

Living with joy and presence is the best way to honor Buffy’s legacy. It’s a reminder that every breath holds the possibility of healing, love, and transformation.

Ready to breathe some joy into your day? Start here and now with the Breath of Joy.

Click here to read Buffy’s online obituary and leave your own memory or condolenses on the Tribute Wall.