Breathe

A couple of days ago I went to the Grand Canyon (South Rim elevation 7,000 feet (2,100 meter), North Rim 8,000 feet (2,400 meter).
The view was breathtaking! Was it the view only though? I know, high altitude can affect your breath as well.

What is breath?

Breath (definition): the air taken into or expelled from the lungs. An inhalation or exhalation of air from the lungs.

Breath is the force that sustains life; conscious breath is the force that sustains awareness. In the practice of yoga, the breath is fundamental.

Yogapedia explains Breath:

Conscious breath is a cycle that infuses the body with oxygen and channels prana (vital energy) throughout the physical being. 
The full breath cycle includes four discrete, and equally important, elements:

Puraka (inhalation) - The steady drawing in of air; filling the lungs and creating an awareness of the vital force that is entering the body.
Abhyantara Kumbhaka (pause after the inhalation) - The intentional cessation of inhalation, a full pause with the body motionless.
Rechaka (the exhalation) - Release of the breath in a steady, conscious movement. Lungs return to a relaxed state.
Bahya Kumbhaka (pause after the exhalation) - A state of calm awareness preceding the next inhalation. A moment of quiet reflection; a present state of being. (Source: www.yogapedia.com)

There are several breathing techniques and exercises helping with breath awareness. Here is one suitable for all ages and all levels (beginners to advanced):

4 x 4 or box breathing

Sit in a calm and comfortable position
Breathe in through your nose counting to 4 (or 4 sec)
Hold your breath counting to 4 (or 4 sec)
Breathe out through your nose counting to 4 (or 4 sec)
Hold your breath counting to 4 (or 4 sec)

You do this for about one minute and you will feel yourself calm down. 

This breathing technique can be utilized at different times of the day. 
It can be helpful to wind down at the end of a busy day, or right before bedtime. It can calm your nerves before a meeting or a difficult conversation.  A great thing about 4x4 or box breathing, you can adjust the rhythm that suits you the best.

Why breathing in Yoga is so important?
When practicing Yoga one important aspect is learning to control your breathing. 
Proper breathing allows your body to retain as much oxygen as possible.
Synchronizing your breath with movement allows you to perform poses with ease and comfort.

More benefits:

- releases tension
- relaxes mind and body
- brings clarity
- relieves pain
- strengthens the immune system
- improves posture
- increases digestion

If you would like to practice breathing and/ or start your Yoga journey, send me a message via contact form. 
I am looking forward to practice with you!

Breathe deeply,
Oma