Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Don't forget to breathe!

During my fitness class yesterday as we were doing a particularly challenging modification of crunches, the instructor reminded us to not forget to breathe. At the time, this struck me as a particularly odd comment. After all, breathing is one of our natural biological functions - we don't have to think about doing it - it just happens. Then I realized that I was holding my breath!

How often do we forget to breathe? Maybe not in the literal sense, but in the sense that we take things too seriously, get wound up over little things, and just don't take the time to relax like we should. A well known benefit of yoga is the increased awareness of breathing. Meditation also focuses on breathing and the clarity and calm that deep and controlled breathing can bring.

My challenge to you today is to focus on your breathing. Take several deep, cleansing breaths and notice how it feels to both your mind and your body. Use this technique frequently and see how calming it can be.

Don't forget to breathe!

April Mims
Life Coach, Nexus Coaching Partners, Inc.
http://www.nexuscoachingpartners.com/

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