Bathing in the Breath
As you take this breath, can you feel your body respond to it? What if you rise up taller and make more space for your breath – what does it feel like now?
Breath is the movement of life. It is a gift offered in each moment, one that we are often not aware of receiving. Breathing is the act that connects each and every living being to one another. It is a beautiful flowing guide that can lead to profound places.
So much of yoga is based on the breath. Most of the physical benefits of asana depend on it. When you do an asana practice, to be in the flow of nature you must lead with your breath.
Pranayama, an entire branch of yoga, is the practice of co-creating the breath using techniques to cleanse and heal the body, focus the mind, and connect with the spirit. It is very important that you never force or strain when working with your breath. Remember, we are not ultimately in control of the breath. There is a consciousness that breathes us, so working with the breath is all about being aware and participating in the act of breathing.
Breath is the secret of being peaceful, of finding equanimity. By bringing your awareness to your breath, you are more able to align with your true nature and tap in to the vast, loving energy of the universe.
Mini-practice: Bathing in the Breath
Take a comfortable seat
Root into your sit bones and rise up through your spine
Open to create spaciousness within
Close your eyes and feel your natural breath
Start to make your breathing even:
Make your inhale the same length as your exhale
Take in an even amount of air through the whole breath,
Allow in the same volume during the beginning and end of the inhale
Release the exhale smoothly
If you know the technique of Ujjayi, you may use it
This is a slight toning of the back of the throat
Producing a gentle whisper of sound
So the breath sounds like the ocean when you hear it in a seashell
If this technique is foreign or escapes you, don`t worry, just breathe evenly
Close your eyes and sit, bathing in this even breath for a few minutes or longer if you wish
When you are ready, release the technique
Give yourself a minute or two to feel your natural breath,
And savour the deep feeling of peace that you created
In the equanimity of your breath
May you continue your day in this blessed peace,
Katrina Ariel
