As featured in Issue 7

Like cannabis, proper breathing can be considered a true panacea routinely delivering greater energy, relaxation, focus and health in proper doses. Breath is the essence of life, and although we are always doing it at all times, every day, many of us do not do it properly. Breath not only provides the oxygen so necessary to life, it connects our body to our mind and as believed by many of the world’s most ancient religions, our spirit.

Natural, relaxed breathing is essential to good health. Not only does proper breathing enhance heart, lung, and brain function, but oxygen flow is necessary to instigate cell reproduction for true healing. A “cleansing breath” is properly named for the intake of oxygen that restores the entire system. Breathing also puts us in touch with ourselves. Taking the time to learn to breathe properly makes us conscious of our connection to an elemental source of life, calling us to be present. Proper breathing is fundamental and vital to true and lasting physical, mental, and emotional health – this is why breath control is a primary component to all yoga practices and most forms of martial arts.

Pranayams – ancient yoga based breathing techniques, increase energy (prana) levels. Pran means “life force”and yama means “control”. Pranayama then is “control of breath”

Using the natural rhythms of the breath and the regular movement of the abdomen as a means to focus awareness and rid oneself of extraneous thoughts. Simply bring your attention to the flow of air into and out of your body – always inhaling and exhaling through the nostrils, not the mouth. Try to rid yourself of thoughts, let them pass, do not to give them energy. Focus within and with each breath you will begin to “breathe out” any aches and pains that have accumulated from the day – it’s as easy as that. When done properly you will notice all of body’s vital organs and digestive tract will fall into their correct places instead of being held with tension. A daily practice of concentrating on breath will do any body a lot of good. Be mindful to bring awareness to the power of your breath for optimum performance in everything you do.