Hey family, I write to you today from the center of my heart. The world is in crisis, to say the least, and sometimes it can feel like we're holding on for dear life. No matter what chaos you are feeling, the stress and anxiety that come with uncertainty can be overwhelming. In times like these, it's more important than ever to find ways to ground ourselves and find inner peace. One powerful tool for doing this is yoga breathing. In this post, we'll explore how yoga breathing can help you navigate a crisis, and offer some tips for incorporating it into your daily routine.
Breathing is something we take for granted, but it's essential to our survival. Focused breathing can have incredible benefits for our mental health, reducing anxiety, stress, and depression. The practice of yoga breathing, or pranayama, takes this to the next level, combining breath and movement to regulate the body and mind.
One of the most accessible yoga breathing techniques is called Ujjayi. Also referred to as "vital breath or ocean breath," Ujjayi consists of breathing in and out through the nose, using a slight contraction of the throat to create a gentle ocean sound. This audible breath helps to anchor the mind, providing a point of focus and calming the nervous system. Sometimes I say, breathe in through your nose and out through a closed mouth. Try a few rounds now.
Another powerful breathing technique is Box Breathing. This technique involves breathing in for four counts, holding for four counts, breathing out for four counts, and holding for four counts before repeating. This rhythmic pattern helps to calm the mind and body, promoting a sense of relaxation and control.
If you're new to yoga breathing, it can be helpful to start with a short practice each day. Find a quiet place where you feel comfortable, set a timer for five minutes, and focus on your breath. Pay attention to the sensation of air moving in and out of your nose, and the rise and fall of your chest and belly. When your mind wanders (as it inevitably will), gently bring your attention back to your breath.
As you become more comfortable with yoga breathing, you can incorporate it into your daily routine. Try Ujjayi or Box Breathing when you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or agitated. You can do it sitting at your desk or in your car, or find a quiet spot to practice.
At the end of the day, yoga breathing is simply about tuning into your body and breath. In a crisis, breathing can be a lifeline, a tool for finding calm amidst chaos. By practicing yoga breathing regularly, you can build resilience, reduce stress, and cultivate a greater sense of peace and groundedness. So take a deep breath, and know that you have the power to weather any storm. With love, Mary Clare and the Lotus House Family