Modern science really has come a long way in understanding the principles that are involved in the physical aspect of breathing, and while this is important, it has limited science to only the physical aspect of breathing. We can see with casual observation that there are other significant effects on the body and mind beyond its' metabolic functions.

Observing our personal experiences shows us that there is a relationship between emotions and the breath. Think back at a time when you experienced a deep sense of loss or intense anger. A sob of grief or the trembling breath of anger is a good reminder in how both the mind and the emotions affect our breath. Have you ever laughed so hard you couldn't breathe? Physical stimuli like pain, exercise and excitement also change the breath and the emotional state.

So, what is the relationship between emotions and the body and the breath? Can you alter emotional and physical states by changing your breath patterns? What is the connection between the body and mind, and what about energy, or prana, that accompanies the breath? The philosophy of the East, especially that of yoga, offers us some answers because it studies both the physical and mental states of being. Advanced meditators have found that not only is there a relationship between the gross physical body and prana and the practice of pranayama, but that there is also a relationship between prana and the mind. This observation brought the discovery of how slowing the breath relaxes the body, and faster breathing energizes the body.

Today, there are so many studies, books and certifications to "teach" you how to breathe, but I've found that it is more than just teaching myself and others how to breathe. “Learning to breathe well is not an additive process in which you learn specific techniques for improving the breath you already have. It is a process of deconstruction where you learn to identify the things you are already doing that restrict the natural emergence of the breath” (Donna Farhi, as quoted in Teaching Yoga, by Mark Stephens, pg. 243).

The purpose of pranayama is to foster a free and undisturbed flow of prana, which quiets the agitations of the mind by nurturing a smooth and clear flow of consciousness. Being able to be aware of where I personally restrict my own breathing helps me to understand how to help others through the process of breathing.

If you want all of the "nerdy" information about this, see the full article here, or request an appointment with me at ohmazingliving@gmail.com.

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Disclaimer:

I am not a medical doctor, nutritionist, or other medical professional. No content on my website, blog, or other social media site is meant or implied to treat, cure, diagnose or prevent any illness or condition. Be sure to seek medical advice from a medical professional before engaging in any activity discussed here. These are my personal thoughts and takeaways from my research and my understanding of such investigation.