Breathing Out, I am in the Present Moment
In the bustling chaos of our daily lives, finding moments of stillness and tranquility can seem like a distant dream. Yet, within the ancient practice of yoga lies a simple yet profound tool that has the power to transform our lives: the breath.
Breath is the very essence of life, and in yoga, it serves as a bridge between the mind, body, and spirit. Through conscious breathing techniques, known as pranayama, we can tap into so many benefits that extend far beyond the physical realm.
1. Stress Reduction: In today's fast-paced world, stress has become a constant companion for many. However, deep, rhythmic breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, triggering the body's relaxation response and reducing stress levels.
2. Improved Mental Clarity: Have you ever noticed how your mind feels clearer and more focused after a few deep breaths? Conscious breathing oxygenates the brain, enhancing cognitive function, sharpening concentration, and promoting mental clarity.
3. Emotional Regulation: The breath is intimately connected to our emotions. By regulating our breathing patterns, we can soothe emotional turbulence, cultivate inner peace, and navigate life's challenges with greater ease.
4. Enhanced Physical Wellbeing: The benefits of breath extend beyond the mind to the physical body. Deep breathing promotes better circulation, strengthens the respiratory system, and boosts the immune system, fostering overall health and vitality.
5. Mind-Body Connection: Yoga teaches us that the mind and body are interconnected. Through breath awareness, we can deepen our yoga practice, moving with greater ease and fluidity, and accessing deeper layers of awareness within ourselves.
6. Strengthening of the Nervous System: The breath acts as a powerful regulator of the nervous system. By practicing specific breathing techniques, we can balance the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system, promoting resilience and well-being.
7. Spiritual Awakening: In yogic philosophy, the breath is regarded as the bridge between the individual self and the universal consciousness. Through breathwork, we can connect with the innermost parts of ourselves, experiencing moments of profound insight, peace, and spiritual awakening.
Incorporating breathwork into your yoga practice doesn't require hours of meditation or special equipment. It simply requires awareness and intention. Whether it's the rhythmic flow of vinyasa, the stillness of yin, or the precision of alignment-based yoga, the breath is our constant companion, guiding us deeper into the present moment and into the depths of our being.
So, this week when you roll out your yoga mat OR are simply sitting at a stoplight during your return to or home from work, remember to invite the breath along for the journey. Embrace its transformative power, and watch as it unfolds a world of healing, vitality, and inner peace before you.
Our mantra for the week is...
I am breathing in and I am breathing out, and in this moment, I am in the present moment
As I breathe out, I feel my body calm
Breathing out, I feel my mind connected to the present moment
Breathing out, I feel my emotions connected to the present moment
Breathing out, I feel my energy connected to the present moment
Breathing out, I feel my connection to the beauty of all living things. I am here.
Our journaling prompt is…
What indications in your body allow you to feel connected to the present moment?
What sensations in your body tell you that you are not connected to the present moment?
What indications in your mind allow you to feel connected to the present moment?
What thoughts in your mind tell you that you are not connected to the present moment?
And our meditation is...
Find a comfortable seat.
Allow your body to relax. Inhaling and exhaling through the nose. Say "I am breathing in. I am breathing out." for 7-10 breaths. With each exhale feel the body relax a little more.
As you feel the body relax, you may come in and out of awareness of the breath, how the body is feeling. You may find yourself lost in thought. Let all this happen naturally. Allow emotions to rise and fall. Welcome in the whole experience.
Listen. Be with the experience of the breath.
Begin the this energizing breath practice, paying particular attention to the exhale...
Inhale deeply through your nose, filling your lungs completely. As you exhale forcefully through your mouth, imagine releasing any tension or fatigue from your body. Repeat this energizing breath for several rounds, focusing on releasing any negativity with each exhale.
Continue this cycle 5-10 times (or longer) Breathe slowly, take your time. After several minutes of breathwork, slowly return to normal breathing. Take a moment to notice how you feel, appreciating the renewed energy and vitality you've cultivated. What insight comes up as you experience this way of breathing? What do you want to remember from this experience? Take a moment to express gratitude for the wisdom of your breath.
Pause and allow yourself plenty of time to slowly return to your day.
