BREATH=LIFE
“Breath is the bridge which connects life to consciousness, which unites your body to your thoughts.” Thich Nhat Hanh
Okay, yes, we need to breathe to live. Quite literally, our breath is the difference between life and death. But the breath is much more than that. It is a force to which we often pay little to no attention. But once you start developing a conscious relationship with your breath, it will pay off tremendously.
Breathwork – or pranayama, as it’s called in yoga – is a key component of any yoga practice. Some practices are quite powerful and should be approached with care. They are best learned under the guidance of an experienced teacher
The benefits of breath practices are significant and far reaching, both for physical health, mental well-being, and spiritual growth.
If you are stressed out or in a state of anxiety or depression there is an affect also, on your breath. This is well documented.
The appropriate breathing practice works directly in your central nervous system to induce a more relaxed state. It directly affects the “fight or flight” response that many are in perpetually.
Improved lung function is another benefit of breathing practices. Living in Covid times has increased our awareness of our breath. And how we can improve our own breathing.
Mental clarity and focus are improved through Breathwork. Oxygenating the brain enhances cognitive function and reduces mental fog.
Improved sleep is another benefit of pranayama. Busy, over stimulated mind and frenzied energy are improved through pranayama techniques.
The mind-body-spirit connection is strengthened through conscious breath. It helps purify the mind, awakening higher consciousness and facilitates inner transformation
And that’s not all.
“Breath is the rhythm of the body, and the rhythm of the body is the rhythm of life.” Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
Science has shown that various breathing practices can have a range of positive effects on physical and mental health.
From stress, anxiety and depression reduction to cardiovascular health to pain management and perception of pain to cognitive function. All this and more are improved with Breathwork.
“The breath is the king of the mind.” B.K.S. Iyengar
A comprehensive approach to health and wellness that includes various lifestyle factors increases the benefit of breathing practices.
Client Comments:
+ Helped me tremendously
Suzanne helped me understand how to correct my reverse breathing and it has helped me tremendously. We also worked on my posture which was also impacting my breathing. — yoga certification/energy work client
+ I didn't know
When I started working with Suzanne, she immediately identified a breath disturbance. Correcting this has taken time but has allowed me to discontinue medication I didn't want to take. — 48 day mandala client
+ Very valuable
Learning to pay closer attention to my breath has taught me so much! I realized how much I was holding my breath and how shallow my breathing really was. — 48 mandala/yoga certification client
Frequent Questions:
+ Are these practices safe?
They are very safe practices for anyone 7 years old or older.
+ I have a lot of congestion. Can I still do breathwork?
Yes, but it is best to try to handle the congestion.
+ Do I need to sit on the floor?
No, a chair is fine.
+ I’m a smoker. Is it ok for me to do breathwork?
Absolutely. In fact if you're looking for support in quitting, breathework can be helpful.
+ I don’t like the breathing practices. Can I skip them?
You can but i wouldn’t recommend it. They are an integral part of the practice.