Tip of the Month ~ March 2009

Need a little stress relief? Just breathe.
What is always available, absolutely free and the antidote for tension? Your breath! Your breath is a relaxation tool that never leaves you. You can access it at work, while you're running errands or whenever you feel stressed. Why not try it now? Close your eyes and observe as you take 10 slow, deep breaths in and out through the nostrils. When you're done, you'll feel calmer, more centered, and more focused.

Another breathing practice, or pranayama, that will lead you to deeper relaxation is Sama Vritti (Equal Breathing). Simply follow these steps toward calm body and focused mind:

Sit comfortably in a chair or in a cross legged position on the floor.
Gently close your eyes, bringing your awareness to the natural breath without changing it.
On your next inhale, slowly breathe in for the count of four. Then begin to slowly exhale for the count of four. The practice is to match the length of your inhale and exhale.
Continue breathing this way for several minutes.
Simply release the counting of the inhalations and exhalations, returning to your natural breath.
You may experiment with changing the number you count to, always making sure your inhale and exhale are the same length.

So the next time you find yourself feeling a little tense, remember that tranquility is only a breath away!

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