M A S T E R S
O F
Bodywork & Healing Arts Santa Rita Springs Dorothy Richmond, LMT Aquatic Massage Jin Shin Jyutsu Cranial Sacral Watsu
520 990 1857 www.SantaRitaSprings.com
TIME TO CATCH OUR BREATH
A
by Naomi Greene
s goes the breath, so follows the body and mind. It may sound simple, but most of us are seldom cognizant of our breathing pattern—even less so during moments of frustration or stress. One of the reasons that stress management, yoga, meditation or other practices work on breathing is that the breath is linked to every emotion we feel or express. When we are stressed or anxious, the first thing that changes is our breathing. The same is true when we’re happy or excited. Think about it. When someone is depressed, breathing is shallow. When surprised or frightened, the ensuing “oh” is a quick inhalation. Crying elicits sobs, with long, sad exhalations and abrupt inhalations. Laughter is automatically accompanied by “ha, ha, ha”, quick in-and-out breaths. When we see a beautiful or peaceful scene, we may take a deep breath, as we visually take it in, then a slow exhalation: “Ahhhh.” Yoga poses and meditation offer regular practice in developing breath awareness and focus. On a purely physical level, practitioners take conscious and deliberate control of the breath. In the long-term, they may expand lung capacity. However, on a deeper level, practitioners learn the difference between diaphragmatic breathing and upper lung breathing, and that the former can bring about emotional and physical health benefits. We can start by simply being aware of our breath at any time of day or situation. Waiting in line at the DMV? Waiting at the pharmacy or store? Starting to feel angry? What is the breath doing? There’s a reason we have the saying “catch your breath”. Our emotions are linked to our breath. Our breathing is linked to our emotions.
18
Tucson Edition
NaturalTucson.com
