Embodied Prayer with Psalm 23
Earth & Water Practice of Rest and Return
“True to your word, you let me catch my breath and send me in the right direction.” — Psalm 23:3
Begin Here
This Earth & Water practice invites you into a slow, grounding flow through Psalm 23. Each movement is a gesture of surrender, trust, and coming home to the Good Shepherd’s care.
You may practice seated or standing. Listen to your body and move in a way that supports your rest.
Let the Psalm wash over you, phrase by phrase, as you settle into God's presence.
A video companion will be added in the coming months to guide you more deeply into the rhythm and sacred meaning of each gesture.
Practice Instructions
quick note: 1 minute is equal to 8 - 10 breaths & 30 seconds to 4 - 5 breaths
pause in between each movement to feel what continues to move within
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
Sit or stand with hands over your heart. Feel the breath rise and fall. Whisper: “I have all I need.”
“He makes me lie down in green pastures.”
Let your hands open wide and slowly lower to your thighs or the earth. Imagine lying in soft grass.
“He leads me beside still waters.”
Sway gently side to side, as if moved by water. Let your breath be smooth, flowing.
“He restores my soul.”
Place both hands over your belly. Inhale deeply. Exhale slowly. Rest in silence.
“He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.”
Step or imagine stepping forward, one foot, then the other. Say aloud: “Lead me, Lord.”
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death…”
Fold forward gently or bow your head. Acknowledge sorrow or fatigue. Whisper: “You are with me.”
“Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
Place your hands on your shoulders. Feel the weight of divine presence. Breathe.
“You prepare a table before me…”
Extend your arms slowly in front of you, palms open. Receive what is being offered.
“You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
Touch your forehead gently, then draw your hands outward and downward, as if light is pouring.
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me…”
Turn your head slowly right, then left. Notice the space behind you. Smile softly.
“And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Bring your hands to prayer at heart center. Bow gently. Rest here in God’s presence.
Closing Prayer
Shepherd of my soul,
You lead me through the day’s unrest into evening stillness.
Let this body lie down in trust,
This mind slow in surrender,
And this heart rest in Your care.
Amen.
As you prepare for rest, take a few quiet moments to write:
• Where did I feel God’s presence most clearly today?
• What burden am I invited to lay down tonight?
• What grace might God wish to reveal to me through my dreams?
Close by offering your sleep to God, and welcome the Spirit to speak in the silence of the night.
Downloadable Practice
Evening Embodied Prayer Practice with Psalm 23
Download the Practice
Video Companion Coming Soon
A guided video will be added in the coming months to walk you through this Evening Practice.