The Value of Breathing Consciously
10th June 2016 By Fiona Reilly Guest Writer for Wake Up World Every minute of every day we breathe, what a joy to feel our breath, to feel our aliveness and vitality. It is the manna or life source that enables us to exist and is essential for our survival. Conscious breathing is said to be one of the best antidotes to stress, anxiety and depression. For many years I have given much consideration to the food and drink that I consume, yet paid little attention to my breath. We can survive for days without food and even water, though only minutes without oxygen. Our breath is vital to our physical existence, the oxygen we inhale helps to build our very cells. It is a process that continually happens often without our conscious awareness. Healing Benefits of Conscious BreathingDue to the wondrous nature of breathing, it’s no surprise that many healing and esoteric practices emphasis focusing on the breath as part of a path to wellbeing. While most of us never give breathing a second thought, the way we draw breath can affect our physical and mental well-being. It has an impact on our energy levels and functioning. Breathing properly can reduce stress levels, improve workouts and boost your immunity to infections and illnesses. Poor breathing can contribute to panic attacks and even conditions like insomnia and depression. Conscious breathing is a great form of meditation that can be easily practiced anywhere, anytime! It could be in the office, waiting for a bus, in a busy restaurant or wherever you happen to be. Simply pause and become aware of the inhale and exhale, the rise and fall of the chest as you breath. Allow the breath’s rhythm to centre, ground and calm you. Thich Nhat Hanh on BreathingHere are two quotes on breath from Thich Nhat Hanh, the famous Buddhist monk and peace activist, he clearly appreciated the positive benefits of conscious breathing:
“Breath is the bridge which connects
life “Feelings come and go like clouds in
a Ways to utilise the breath for your benefitThe following are some practices through which you can use the breath for your well-being and benefit:
“Breath is the finest gift of nature. About the Author She is also a reflexologist and experienced doula. She is passionate about living true to her heart and soul and empowering others to do the same. Her website is fionareilly.co.uk
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