Of course you are! If you are reading this post then you are most definitely breathing.
The breath is voluntary going on and on with out us having to think about it.
But it if we do decide to think about it and put our attention to our breath it can become a powerful tool for life changing experiences.
The science of breathing from ancient India is called "Pranayama", it is a very in depth study of breath control which can lead the practitioner to extreme techniques such as stopping the heart beat. This was demonstrated to scientists by Krishnamacharya in the early 20th century.
We don't need to go to such extremes to enjoy the benefits of conscious breathing. Starting with only 10 simple deep conscious breaths a day is a good beginning. If you feel inspired you can do this practice twice a day and if your interest grows you may seek out a competent yoga teacher to lead you onward.
Here are just a few of the many benefits of practising conscious breathing;
Heart health- improved circulation, lowers and regulates blood pressure
Nervous system - calms nerves and mind leading to improved mental health, memory, decision making and relieves stress related illnesses, depression and anxiety.
Oxygenates cells - increases immune function, cellular regeneration and detoxification
Lung health - increase lung capacity, relieves respiratory disorders
Diaphragm strengthening- leads to better breathing and prevents hiatus hernia
Organ health - all internal organ function is improved, including digestion and elimination
Hormones- balances the endocrine system and relives insomnia
Preparation for meditation- conscious breathing keeps us focused in the NOW
Let's get started!
Lie down on your back with your head slightly raised. Bring your hand and rest it lightly on the diaphragm area which is located at the lowest end of the breast bone.
Breathing through your nose start the inhalation at this diaphragm area and you will feel the hand rising upward. Continue to fill the lungs with breath upward towards the collar bones. Pause for a second or two until you mentally prepare to exhale from the diaphragm area feeling the hand dropping backward towards the floor as you empty the lungs completely.
Slowly start another conscious inhalation and continue this process until you have done 10 complete breaths.
For most people this practice only takes one to two minutes. After some weeks or months of practice you may like to set a timer for 5 mins and not have to count the breaths, allowing the mind to completely focus on the movement of breath. Experiment with this and see what you get from it. You may be very surprised. I've given you several good reasons to try.
*NOTE: the diaphragm is the muscle of respiration, please refer to the diagram below for a simple
example.
Love and Light
Brenda Brenda E. Bell Copyright 2015
