Keep Breathing!

Are you still breathing during this often crazy, busy time of year? Better yet, are you slowing down enough to notice that breath at least once a day?

We breathe, on average, 15-20 times every minute of every day. It’s completely involuntary (thank goodness or we might forget all together and be in big trouble!). That said, it can be incredibly powerful to pause to be intentional and mindful with your breath, which just means to slow it down and notice it.

Your breath is a tool you carry in your “back pocket” at all times that can bring you straight to a place of calm and, of course, the present moment. Your breath is always right here, right now.

The benefits of mindful breathing as a presence practice are seemingly boundless based on all of the ongoing research; but, here are some of my favorites when it comes to what we can cultivate and improve when we make the conscious choice to be still and breathe:

• Focus
• Equanimity
• Patience
• Clarity
• Awareness
• Peace

It doesn’t take long and, like anything, it gets easier with doing. If this is a new practice for you, start by finding a quiet place, sitting still and closing your eyes. Then, take 5 slow, deep breaths just noticing the air as it enters, moves through and exits your body. Try to do this a couple times a day. After a few days, try to extend to 5 minutes (even use a timer) then 10 minutes and on up to 15-20 minutes per day.

This practice doesn’t take long. It doesn’t take intensive training. It is as simple as you’ll allow it to be. It’s free. And it works. So, if you’re not doing this every day…why not? If the story is that you’re “too busy”, remember that this is nothing more than a story, indeed. Make it a priority and you’ll find what many other busy folks find – it actually helps you get more done…and done better because your more calm and focused!

Below is a quick 2-minute video I created you can bring up any time to remind you of both the importance and power of your breath.

https://youtu.be/f2jwp6yUk-U

So even though life is busy (oh, how I get it), the invitation is to CHILL OUT at least once a day and do nothing more than BREATHE for a few minutes!

Sending you much love,