ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Stop 1

Scenic stop on the Alcove Nature Trail

NPS

Quick Facts

Location:

Colorado National Monument

This is the first stop along the ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument experience. The purpose of this activity is to calm and focus the mind to prepare for the coming activities. This activity focuses on a breathing exercise and meditation. You may listen to the audio portion for a guided meditation or read the self-guided meditation below. Once the activity is complete, you can answer the clue to release the first code word to advance your ESCAPE.

Self-Guided Meditation

Set a timer for 1 to 2 minutes. Find a comfortable position either seated or standing. Breathe in for four counts, hold for four counts, breathe out for four counts, and hold for four counts. This is called "square-breathing." You can imagine a square as you follow this cycle of breath until the timer goes off. If you feel comfortable, lower or close your eyes. Ready yourself, set your timer, and focus on your breath.

First Code Clue

Clue: In this exercise we focused on this six-letter word to calm and focus our minds.   

Write down the word and save it for later. If you are in a group, consider designating a “code keeper” to keep track of the code-words.  

Now that you have your word, move to “ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Stop 2” to continue.

Want more?

If you enjoyed that activity and would like a moment to reflect, write down a few words that come to mind following the breathing exercise. How did it feel? What were you thinking about? If you are participating on the tour with others, consider sharing your reflections with a buddy.