Friday, March 7, 2008

The Most Important Exercise of Your Life: Just Breath

In today’s world, many people have at some point in their lives felt the importance of exercising. Doctor’s from all over the world ask patients about their exercise habits and the importance of exercising regularly. There are also hundreds of trainers, tapes, and DVD’s containing exercise routines and tips, allowing for a wide range of options to meet various individual needs.

Some exercise routines are recommended by many, while others may feel they are harmful. Then there are also some professionals who believe that too much exercise can even be harmful. For example, prolonged strenuous exercise can lower an individual’s immune system.

However, there is one form of exercise that is universally accepted by nearly every doctor and every other professional out there in the world. This exercise has been proven not only to be physically beneficial, but also mentally beneficial. That exercise is, “breathing”. Several studies have shown that taking the time to effectively breathe can improve your physical health, as well as your mental health. For example, breathing becomes restricted when someone feels frustrated, angry, or stressed out. Breaths become shorter and more shallow, resulting in restricting the function of our lungs.

Taking time to breathe, and being fully aware of your breathing, creates a space in your mind. At that moment the space exists, your thoughts subside and your body begins to relax, allowing for a feeling of presence.

Some people may brush breathing off as effective since they may not receive an instant “Aha” moment, nor a sudden rush of gratification. However, with regular practice, taking time to breath can and will change a person’s life. An inner transformation occurs and allows for a sense of wonder and inspiration. Things in the world may appear differently to them, more beautiful and pure.

Therefore, if you don’t include “breathing” as part of your exercise routine, please start today, and watch the world unfold before your eyes.

Effective Breathing Exercise

1. Sit somewhere comfortable and relax your body and clear your mind.
2. Become aware of your breath.
3. Notice the sensation of each breath. Pay attention to the air moving in and out of your body.
4. Then pay attention to how your chest and abdomen expand and contract with every breath, in and out.
5. Do this for just two or three breaths, preferably several times a day.

Over time your world will change in miraculous ways. ENJOY!

1 comment:

Jamaica Mon said...

Sounds good. I will definitely try this one. What could be easier than breathing and paying attention to it. Sometimes the smallest things make the greatest difference.