Inside Yoga 123

The most important solutions are often simple; the most effective remedies are sometimes natural; and the most profound messages straightforward. So in keeping with this theme, consider this: less stress is just one breath away.

Stress hits us at any time and sometimes it can stick like glue to our whole being. Shaking it off and ridding ourselves of this unwelcome feeling and situation can be very hard, and exhausting, and before long we can become stuck in a vicious cycle with the exit doors becoming increasingly distant.

So it is useful to realise that less stress is just one breath away. This is how you do it: breathe in consciously and deeply, and the very slowly, without pushing, let the air out, with a long exhalation. This is the basis of yoga, Buddhist meditation and so many other meditational techniques which have been shown to reduce stress.

Yet, we search for the complexity within the practice; thinking there must be more to it, but no there isn’t really – it’s just about the breathing.

This simple and effective way of breathing can help reduce the stress we feel. It does not take away the cause of the stress if it is an external situation, for example, at work. But, if we can reduce this horrible feeling of stress – tightening in the chest, shortness of breath, lack of appetite and anxiety, we can then approach the cause of the stress with more energy and determination, and solve it, take action to remove the cause of the problem. We need a clear head to remove stress from our lives and the first step is to breathe.

This can be done in everyday situations, for example, walking and sitting, standing in a queue. The moment we realise we feel stressed (however slight) remember to breathe in deeply and slowly exhale. Repeat it as often as you can; and if you do get a chance to go somewhere quiet and guaranteed free of interruption that is much better.

And remember we are breathing every moment of the day, so why not make it a conscious slow breath, an effective and healing breath.

GOC 1/12/14

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