Just Breathe

... People say that as if we're somehow alive, forgetting to breathe, right?

But if you stop and FOCUS on your breath, it really can make a difference.

I had a rough time a year or so ago, and started learning about mindfulness. There are several things I can say about it, but one thing that helps me anytime, anywhere, is that slow, deep breaths really do help!

In yoga, the first thing is to focus on the breath. Take a minute and center yourself with a deep breath. A long slow inhale, a long slow exhale. Concentrate on the sensation of the breath filling your lungs, and let go of any tension with the exhale... It's not rocket science, but if you focus on breathing, all the other thoughts plaguing your brain dissipate. It is calming.

If you're angry, what do people say? "Take a deep breath." If you have ever done that, you may have noticed that the simple inhale-exhale action released something. You might still be angry, but you can also calmly deal with the situation.

When I get panicky or anxious, sometimes just closing my eyes and focusing on a few deep breaths helps remind me that really, everything is okay. (That's part of mindfulness, too: focusing on this moment, right now.)

What about you? What works for you?

(If you're visiting from A to Z, please include the name of your blog as it is on the Master List so I can return the favor!)