I have a question for you dear reader, how often to you notice how you are breathing?

For most of us, our breath happens in the background without any thought put towards it (thankfully!). But sometimes it’s good to check in with the breath because the breath tells us a lot about how we are feeling in the moment.

It can tell us if we’re stressed, nervous, happy, excited, tired, sad, or simply content.

The way the body breathes can stimulate or hinder the functionality of inner organs like our respiratory diaphragm and pelvic floor.

Our breath can also affect the way our body responds to external or internal events. For example: If we are breathing short, fast and in the chest this will trigger our body to tense (especially at the orifices like the mouth, eyes, pelvic floor) so it can protect itself and either fight or escape a situation. If we are breathing slow, easy and relaxed our body will relax.

So yes, while the breath thankfully does just get on with things no matter what, it can also be an incredible tool for us.

Breath control (also known as pranayama) is one of the main pillars of yoga. Why? Because when it’s used mindfully, it’s the gateway to truly connecting and understanding yourself.

Breath is mental health and physical health.

Breath is movement.

Breath is communication.

Breath is a moment of loving kindness.

Breath is a self-massage from the inside out.

I have put together a little video about mindful breathing, why it’s important, how and when we can start doing it in our daily life, and a short practice to get you started! So click play and let's chat!

I’d love to hear your thoughts about how you interact with your breath and what you notice when you practice mindful breathing. Send me a message in the contact form below or post a comment on the YouTube video.

Also! If you’re looking for a way to continue connecting with yourself, slowing down, and working on adding in these skills of mindful movement, breath work and mindset come join me in 24 Days of Slowing Down!

Over the course of 24 days you’ll receive 24 different videos of 10mins or less that will give you tools you can use to support yourself as we move into what can often be a very busy and overwhelming time of the year: deadlines and holidays!

Join me for 24 Days of Slowing Down as a holiday gift to yourself!