Noticing the Breath - Pranayama

Pranayama – Prana (life force) Yama (control)

“When the Breath wanders, the mind is unsteady, but when the Breath is still so is the mind still.” - Hatha Yoga Pradipika

How often do we really think about our breath? It is so automatic; we really don’t notice it until maybe we are out of breath from climbing stairs or doing some form of physical activity. The average person takes 14 to 20 breaths per minute. Most people breathe shallowly, through their mouth and do not use the diaphragm, taking in small amounts of oxygen and only using the top of their lungs. This can result in feeling tired and having less energy.

When we learn to breathe mindfully, paying attention to our breath, we can lower stress and anxiety, increase energy and metabolism, and improve our overall health. This is what yoga breathing techniques, pranayama, are designed to do.

According to Sheila Patel, M.D. in her article Breathing for Life: The Mind-Body Health Benefits of Pranayama, simple yogic breathing techniques have specific effects on the mind-body physiology. For example, if you are feeling stressed or anxious, Alternate Nostril Breathing can help or if you are feeling angry or frustrated trying Ocean’s Breath might be just what your body and mind need to calm you down. You can learn more about Pranayama and some of the different breathing techniques in Dr. Patel’s article at http://www.chopra.com/ccl/breathing-for-life-the-mind-body-healing-benefits-of-pranayama.

Practicing pranayama daily can train yourself to breathe more slowly and more deeply. Setting aside five minutes in the morning is a perfect way to start your day. Your body and mind will thank you!

Namaste,

Betsy