Jesus Prayer breath meditation

In most traditions, the Jesus Prayer meditation involves repeating the words "Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me".

Occasionally this is expanded to "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner."

To perform this meditation, it is important to align the words being spoken with your own breath.

As you draw your breath in, say, or imagine yourself saying, "Lord Jesus Christ". And as you exhale, say "have mercy on me".

Which words you place your emphasis on as you are reciting the Jesus Prayer can depend on what it is you are seeking to achieve.

For example, emphasizing "Lord" can help reassure you that God is in control of everything. "Jesus" can appeal to the human form of God, asking for His understanding of our human problems. "Christ" can reinforce the role Jesus plays as mediator between us and God. And "Have mercy on me" can show a specific, or urgent, need for mercy.