Breathe...

Breathing is arguably the single most important aspect of yoga. You might say yoga is breathing. Of course, breathing is the mechanism that sustains life. It brings much needed oxygen to our organs, muscles, and cells. But through conscious breathing, we can actually regulate our mind-body system. When we feel stressed, we can soothe our nervous system, literally "short circuiting" our stress hormones. We can use our breath to energize our bodies and clear, refresh our minds. In nutshell, when we purposely lengthen our exhalations, we activate parasympathetic nervous system, which calms us. When we purposely lengthen our inhalation, we increase the oxygen level in our bloodstream, which alleviates fatigue throughout our bodies and brains. Focusing on equalizing the length of our inhalations and exhalations brings our mind and body into balance.

Breathing consciously is one of the most important parts of Hatha yoga and, for for many students of yoga, often the most elusive. The breath nourishes and guides the asana practice. It is the source of energetic awakening throughout the body. Through conscious breathing we open in the asana practice to learning more about ourselves, cultivating wholeness in body, mind, and Spirit.

If you are ready to explore different types of breath to achieve and operate with more energy, clarity and awareness, begin to learn yogic breathing techniques and you will be able to alter your state of being. All it takes is attention and practice.

Blessings,

Your Yoga Guide