Big Belly Breathing

8.5 Meditation for Teens & Adults: "North Beach: Guided Visualization in one of San Francisco's beloved neighborhood"

• Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely

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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 North Beach neighborhood, from Coit Tower, down the Filbert Street stairs and the hidden staircase, through the aromas of this Italian neighborhood and finally to Washington Square park.

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


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Big Belly Breathing (BBB) is a bilingual audio program for kids (and the grownups who love them), founded by Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely. Featuring episodes in English and French, BBB focuses on mindfulness, health, and wellness—inviting young listeners into joyful, imaginative, and restorative practices.

As a Physical Education and meditation teacher, parent of bilingual kids, yoga instructor, social-emotional learning facilitator, and holistic health & wellness coach, Vanessa created Big Belly Breathing to help children establish daily habits that nurture both body and mind.

Healthy Habits = Happy Kids

Through each episode, children are gently guided to:

  • Breathe mindfully
  • Stretch their creativity
  • Build emotional awareness
  • Practice gratitude
  • And enjoy mini-moments of deep rest that help them reset, restore, and recalibrate.

In today’s busy, screen-heavy world, BBB offers kids a chance to feel centered, grounded, and good—helping them create their own self-care rituals, routines, and wellness habits that can last a lifetime.

These tools support mental clarity, physical health, and emotional resilience, setting kids up for more joy today and as they grow into adulthood.

But it’s not just for kids!

BBB also includes special episodes designed for ...

Meditation for Adults: Guided Visualization in San Francisco’s North Beach


Hello and welcome to Big Belly Breathing. I'm Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely, and I'm thrilled to guide you on a special journey through a neighborhood in my beloved city, San Francisco. Today’s guided meditation journey will take us through the vibrant neighborhood of North Beach.


As we explore this historic area together, focus on taking deep, calming breaths to enhance your sense of relaxation and presence.


Let's begin by finding a comfortable position. Sit or lie down in a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. Close your eyes, take a deep breath in through your nose, and slowly exhale through your mouth. With each breath, feel yourself sinking deeper into relaxation. Inhale deeply, filling your lungs with fresh air, hold it for a moment, and then release it slowly, letting go of any tension or stress.


Imagine yourself standing at the top of Telegraph Hill at Coit Tower. With the city bustling below, take a moment to breathe in the fresh Pacific air. Inhale deeply, and as you exhale, visualize looking out over the sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The cool breeze caresses your face, bringing with it the salty scent of the ocean.


As you continue to breathe deeply, begin your descent down the Filbert Steps. With each step, take a breath in, noticing the lush greenery that surrounds this hidden staircase. Exhale slowly, listening to the chirping of the wild parrots that inhabit the area. Feel your muscles relax with each step downward, as you immerse yourself in this peaceful escape from the city.


Now, find yourself walking along the vibrant streets of North Beach, known as Little Italy. Breathe in the delicious aromas of fresh Italian pastries and coffee drifting from the local cafés. As you pass by, take a deep breath in and perhaps stop to enjoy a cup of coffee. Sit at a small table, feeling the warmth of the cup in your hands, and take a sip. With each sip, breathe in the robust aroma and let the warmth spread throughout your body.


Continue your journey to Washington Square Park, a gathering place in the heart of North Beach. Find a comfortable spot on the grass and sit down. Take a deep breath in, filling your lungs with the fresh, cool air. As you exhale, look around at the people enjoying the day, the dogs playing, and the beautiful Saints Peter and Paul Church in the background. Feel a sense of community and tranquility here.


For the next few minutes, simply enjoy the atmosphere of North Beach. With each breath, allow yourself to become more relaxed and at peace. Inhale the vibrant energy of the neighborhood, and exhale any worries or stresses. Imagine the gentle sun on your face, the soft grass beneath you, and the gentle hum of the city around you.


Now, slowly bring your awareness back to your physical surroundings. Take one more deep breath in, savoring the memory of your visit to North Beach. Exhale slowly and when you’re ready, open your eyes.


Thank you for joining me on this relaxing journey through North Beach. Carry this peace and relaxation with you throughout the rest of your day.