Breathing – Life’s Greatest Pleasure

“Breathing for some may be monotonous process while for some it is a marvel.”

 

These simple words were said by one of my friends while we were discussing about life and its virtues. Easy they may sound, yet, had a deep impact on me and thus I thought of writing my post today on breathing.

All of us must have read in our science books that breathing is a process through which oxygen is supplied to our body. Also, through breathing, our body gets cleansed as it gets rid of toxins. The process of breathing is very simple and is continuing. And this is one of the reasons that we take it for granted as we do not realize the powerful impact; it has on our mind, body and soul.

The ancient yogis developed breathing techniques, better known as Pranayamas, to master this spiritual art. Controlling the Prana or the breath maximizes the benefits of yoga practice and also increases the concentration. Ujjayi, dirgha pranayama, bhramari and nadi shodhana are to name a few. Besides, in every yoga posture, a yogi has to synchronize the body movements with the breaths he take.

This rhythm of pranic energy clears the mind with all distractions and helps in connecting with the spirit within. Calmness in breathing leads to a longer and healthier life as it reunites the life with conscience and body with the thoughts.

Joys, happiness, sorrows, emotions and feelings can all be controlled with our breath. It has been rightly said, “When you own your breath, nobody can steal your peace.”

Breathing, truly is a gift of God and we should cherish each and every breath we take. The following lines explain the beauty of this process better:

Inhale, and God approaches you. Hold the inhalation, and God remains with you. Exhale, and you approach God. Hold the exhalation, and surrender to God. ~Krishnamacharya

 

 

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