Breathing

Modern researchers and ancient sages were both correct - there is a link between the mind and the body. That link is the breath. We are constantly breathing, but we do not realize the importance of proper breathing habits, and do not understand the power of the breath.

The rhythm of our lungs, the smooth flow of air through our nostrils and the fresh vitality of the atmosphere, can be used to orchestrate a wonderful life. In contrast, fear makes us hold our breath. Depression makes us sigh. And grief makes us gasp. The science of breath has been denoted as the science of happiness. A serene breath is both pleasant and therapeutic.

In the past 5 years, yoga classes have started to place a greater emphasis on breathing, and psychologists have stressed the importance of breathing techniques in relaxation training, and every week medical journals around the world are scientifically validating the power of proper breathing.

Here are a few quick tips on proper breathing:

First, always breathe through the nose, reserve the mouth only for eating.

Secondly, breathe diaphragmatically into your abdomen. This will allow more air to fill your lungs and will steady your breath flow.

Thirdly, breathe in a smooth, slow, quiet and continuous manner. Once this pattern is established, then the breath should flow effortlessly.

Using and Channeling the Breath
Since the breath is the link between the mind and the body, it is possible to do specific breathing exercises in order to quiet the mind and calm the body. One of the most profound breathing techniques is called Alternate Nostril Breathing. This easy-to-learn, life-changing exercise has been studied clinically in modern times. Here is a brief introduction to alternate nostril breathing. Our Free eBook, Meditation: The Inward Journey, contains a comprehensive guide to this technique. You can request your free eBook by clicking here and it will arrive instantly in your mailbox.

Alternate Nostril Breathing
1. Sit confortably with your head, neck and trunk in straight alignment.

2. Establish smooth, diaphragmatic, nasal breathing.

3. Remove your awareness from all other places and all other spaces, allowing yourself to sit quietly and comfortably.

4. Determine which nostril is the most active (the most open) by using your fingers to close off one nostril at a time. The active nostril is the nostril is most easy for air to flow through.

5. The essence of this practice is to breath through one nostril for 3 breaths, and then to breath through your other nostril for the next 3 breaths. Always start with an exhalation, exhaling through the most open (active) nostril. After breathing through each nostril three times, then breathe through both nostrils for 3 breaths.

6. These nine breaths comprise one set of alternate nostril breathing. You then repeat these nine breaths (one set) until you have completed 3 to 9 sets.

7. Upon completion of alternate nostril breathing, you may begin your meditation practice.

You can get an audio tape that will guide you through this practice. Click here to get it.

The 61 Point Relaxation Exercise
You can enhance the benefits of alternate nostril breathing by following it with the 61 point relaxation exercise. This technique is useful for insomnia, high blood pressure, anxiety and general restlessness. You can learn more about 61 points by clicking here.