Guest Author - Nancy Welker
We're born taking that first breath, and ever since then it became so natural to us that we don't even notice we're doing it. As a Yogi, focusing on your breath is something you need to practice daily.
Explaining the meaning of "Prana":
The name of the life force, or energy, that supports all forms of life on Earth is Prana. Breathing draws in oxygen and creates a natural flow of energy throughout your body and raises the level of your stress tolerance. Forming a mind-body-action connection makes the act of purposeful breathing all the more beneficial. Use your mind to visualize the air coming into your lungs and your body receiving the goodness of it. Every cell in your body reproduces itself throughout your life, and Prana is what starts the process every time you take a breath!
How to breathe efficiently:
The first Yoga rule you need to learn is that this modality is based on using good posture and improving it as time goes on, which goes hand in hand with deep breathing practices.
Try this exercise:
From a seated position in a chair or on the floor, make sure your posture is correct by keeping your spine straight and bringing your shoulders down to a comfortable, but stable position. Your legs should be in Easy Pose (see below) position if on the floor or flat down and together if seated. This allows your lungs to have the room they need to expand and take fuller, deeper breaths. The benefits of taking a deep breath now will be felt right away. Your body will relax, as will your mind. Any tension in your face and neck will ease. Your shoulders and upper back will feel strong and you'll notice an increase in your positive energy.
Easy Pose (Sukhasana):
*Sit on the floor, back straight and legs stretched out in front of you. Legs and feet are hip width apart.
*Bend your knees and cross your legs in front of you, drawing in your feet as close to your buttocks as you can without pain.
*Place hands on your knees, palms facing up, and bring your shoulders down and back slightly, easing any tension.
*Press your sit bones down toward the floor and lengthen your spine.
Tips:
*Make certain that you are continually taking in and letting out a breath - never holding your breath at any time. The pace at which you breathe should be even and steady, which creates a sense of balance within your body and mind at the same time.
*Inhaling should be done when your arms are lifted, when you bend backward or stretch to lengthen your body.
*Exhaling should be done when you lower your arms, go deeper into a movement, or bend forward.
Remember to relax and limit your thoughts to what you're doing - and breath in some great energy!
