Not all Breaths are Created Equal

I haven't a clue how many times I've encouraged others to be aware of their breath, and I really can't think of a more important or meaningful thing for people to tend to.

The breath of life. Quite simply, without our breath as a constant companion, we wouldn't be here. When you think about it in those terms, each and every breath we take sustains our existence over the next few minutes. And, not all breaths are created equal. The fullness of the inhale, the completeness of the exhale, the places and durations of pauses, the pace and intensity of its movements, and the attitudes and focus' all tint the neutrality of pure prana, en route to our cells and synapses.

The quality of each moment of life is greatly influenced by the quality of the last few breaths. And it's all completely free for the taking. (Well, you might have to “pay” attention.) It's like the universe has provided us with an absolutely abundant larder and granted us open access to it. Each breath is a scoop of vital life force that splashes into our heart centers and cascades throughout our bodies and minds in a perpetual play of give and take. “Excuse me. Might I please borrow another cup of prana?”

First, one has to take the time to get to know the breath, in all its guises, and observe the corresponding effects on the body and brain. Then we can develop the skill to intentionally influence our state of being through conscious control of the breath.

It may seem like a huge commitment to endeavor to hold perpetual awareness and mastery of our breathing. But it “pays off in spades”, often, in unexpected ways. Our breathing is always happening, and it takes as much energy to ignore something that's so “in your face” as it does to pay attention to it.

The breath is always affecting the way the mind works, shouldn't the door swing both ways?

For all intents and purposes, on a personal level, our lives are as we perceive them to be. If there's a way for us to manage how we experience and react to our world, doesn't it seem like something that deserves the highest priority? And it's as easy and natural as ... well, breathing. The body already knows how to utilize the breath, demonstrating its prowess through such acts as: yawning, sighing, coughing, crying, gasping, laughing, grunting, moaning and humming.

If only it required something that could turn a profit. Then, at least, there'd be some infomercials out there pushing the message, too. Instead, you've just got the likes of me. I broadcast my words into the air and across the expanses of cyberspace in the hopes that someone will hear me, take a little time to ponder my thoughts and receive some new insights or a fresh perspective.

Accepting that your breath is largely responsible for how you see and feel, in each passing moment - if you're not in control of it, then who is? Shut off the autopilot. Pay attention and take charge. It's the obvious choice, when you look at your options.

How do you want to feel over the next minute or three? Imagine it and invite your breath to help you bring that feeling to life. Whether you acknowledge it or not, your breath is always actively feeding your being for the immediate future, shaping and coloring your every experience.

Breathe wisely.