Breath – Key to Quality of Life
Our life as a conscious being begins at birth with an inhalation and our life will end with our last exhalation. From cradle to the grave except in times of illness our breathing function does not let us down. Throughout the whole period of our life-span respiration will continue without a pause-its interminable rhythm keeping us supplied with oxygen, giving us life energy whether we are aware of it or not.
The majority of these breaths are taken unconsciously, with many being taken in the hours of sleep. But we expect that in sleep the breath will continue, and it does so. It is a potent reminder of the absolute faith that we place in nature and this natural process every time we go to sleep.
Respiration is so fundamental and dependable a physical process, that we are apt to take it for granted. We tend to overlook its importance, and the wonder of it. But specially, it is our breath we should recall, that allows us to speak, to sing, and to enjoy the gift of creative language allowing us to communicate our thoughts.
The yogis over many centuries of observation of human breathing have amassed valuable information about the breath in relation to all aspects of the human psyche with the aim to employ this knowledge in assisting those seeking to improve not only physical health but their mental fitness.
Learning breath control produces physical results and psychological benefits beyond the most obvious one of maintaining and even strengthening the hold we have on life, through the link between body and soul. Not only does conscious breathing increase body energy but deeper breathing, in particular, stimulates all our mental faculties and sharpens our spiritual awareness.
We will feel more vital and in better mental health if we remember that the greater capacity we have to breathe deeply and easily, the more energy we will have – it is that simple.
To inhale the delightful qualities offered in nature’s storehouse of perfumes makes it additionally pleasurable.
