Breathing and the breath

What is so special about breathing? Isn’t it something we do daily, automatically, without thinking? We learnt it as soon as we were born – without even being taught how to.Then why do all the great sages, thinkers and philosophers ask us to focus on our breath? Why are we told to notice and be intentional about our breathing?
I tried it out for myself to notice any difference. After deep intentional breathing for almost a month, this is what I have noticed:
1) Yes, I do need to be intentional in deep breathing if I want to reap the full benefits of it. As the day progresses and I get caught up with busyness, my breathing gets shorter and shallower. Noticing this is the first step to taking deep breaths.
2) There is indeed a calming effect from deep intentional breathing. This pause gives me the space and time to think about the situation I am in. And the response I should be making. Although just a few seconds, it’s enough for me to get realigned with myself and focus.
3) Deep breathing impacts those around me. They start taking deep breaths too. I would say what a great way to spread positivity 🙂
4) So try it out for yourself. It may be difficult to remember in the beginning but give yourself an anchor as a reminder. For example, I will take 3 deep breaths as soon as I turn on the shower or as soon as I sit in the car. As you do this repeatedly, soon you will start incorporating deep breathing in your daily routine and start noticing the difference in you.

So let’s start a breathing revolution!

Storytelling vs Reality

Storytelling is considered an art. An art which teaches children morals, keeps traditions alive and is something, if done well, people find engaging.
But storytelling can become a bane if we are not careful of the stories we tell ourselves – of others, of our own situation or of our misery. If left unchecked, negative stories can cause damage to ourselves as we get blinded by the conversations we have with ourselves rather than acknowledge the reality around us.

How can we switch the negative stories we tell ourselves?

1) Read “Loving What Is” by Bryon Katie. A powerful book on changing our own mindset rather than attempting to change others. The basic premise of the book is that our mind is “our business”. The minds of others is “their business”. And we have no business getting into someone else’s business. She describes 4 powerful questions which can help people change their perspective of their situation.

2) Create diversity in your conversations. Speak to at least one new person a week. Seek out those who are not part of your regular circle of friends and acquaintances. Be curious about their perspectives and thoughts on issues. Listen to connect, not judge. They may be able to offer you an alternative perspective to your story.

3) Trust yourself that you can live without negative stories. Feel comfortable with the discomfort of not having stories to commiserate with. Having negative stories can become so ingrained in us that it becomes our reality. A reality which we hold dearly to – even though it may be causing us pain. Let go and trust yourself that you don’t need them.

So what stories are you telling to yourself?