Often times it's so easy to get to our yoga mats or any type of physical exercise & just go. In that going we extend, contract, stretch, move, jump & flex, but are we breathing? Are we really using the fullness of our breath which gives us life. I challenge anyone in eye shot to take the "24 Hour Breathing Challenge". Oh what is this challenge you ask? This will allow us to take note of our breathing patterns all throughout the day. Once we are aware of these patterns then we can make the appropriate changes.
This challenge can be documented mentally, through journals, voice recordings on your cell phone etc. Upon rising notice your normal breathing patterns. Is it heavy, quick, shallow, labored, smooth, deep, full, or normal? Each time you change you actions from taking a phone call to driving to work, document it. Notice the breath when that black F150 cuts you off and you scream your obscenities. Take note when you are on the phone with a telemarketer or bill collector. What is your breating status when watching certain programs on the television. Everytime you change actions take note. By the end of the day review your documented breathing patterns.
If your breathing is quick & shallow during stressful or tense situations then during your next normal curse out moment, breathe slowly & deeply. This simple excercise can work wonders in numerous situations during our daily life.
So the next time your dripping sweat balls & grunting with shallow breathing in Warrior III or Chaturanga Dandasana remember to "Follow the Breath". The most important aspect of any yoga practice is pranayama (the breath). This can transfer to any form of physical activity and everything else under the sun. The breath is life!
