Monday, October 27, 2008

Start Breathing Again

When you're in conflict or otherwise feeling stressed, you may notice you hold your breath. When you stop the natural flow of the breath even for a moment, you become physically and emotionally tight, contracted, and unbalanced. Your body, mind and spirit disconnect from each other, and you separate energetically from your surroundings.

A good way to increase relaxation and develop your centering practice is to notice you're holding your breath. It may make you a little crazy at first. We all hold breath in our bodies far more often than we realize, and it may surprise you just how often it happens. But the awareness of holding will trigger you to start breathing again.

When and how might you unconsciously hold your breath? There are so many possibilities, but here are a few:
  • Opening the door to your office
  • As you start the car
  • When you encounter a confrontational coworker or family member
  • When you're trying to think what to say next
  • Gardening
  • Shoveling snow
  • During parts of your exercise routine
  • Right now?

The more you notice you're holding, the quicker you can begin to breathe again and the more relaxed you'll be. And even more than relaxation, your breath is your ki, your life energy. Conscious breathing re-centers you and engages your inner wisdom, resources and strength.

You need only open your throat and allow inspiration to take place. As you open your body to the breath, your mind opens, too.

Make this moment a Centering Moment! Notice your breathing; expand your ki. Remind yourself to do this simple act several times today, and support others in doing it. Let it bring you back to the present moment.

- Judy Ringer

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