We take them between poses when things get hard.
Let’s take them with us outside the studio.
Deep breaths. We’re talking Ujjayi or deep breathing through the nose (not to be confused with sighing, although that also feels really good). This is intentional, I-need-to-focus-on-this breathing that can not only get us through a challenging pose, but through any tough situation.
Let’s face it, life is stressful sometimes. It could be a reaction to getting cut off on the highway or any of those moments when you’re at your wits end. We’re all prone to feeling the heat – and not the hot yoga, Funky Buddha kind.
When we reach that breaking point, our brain is hardwired to go into “Fight or Flight” mode. Our bodies react the same as if a bear were chasing us or after getting a nasty email. We’ve all heard of it and know how our bodies immediately react. Stress is stress.
So before those swear words leave our lips or we find ourselves running as far away as possible, let’s think of Ujjayi and how freaking good it feels to just take a deep breath. It’s the perfect time to consciously choose to take a breath in order to shift our reaction.
So next time you want to crack some skulls:
1. Hold up. You freaking got this.
2. Take in a deep breath. Literally.
3. Start breathing those deep, soulful breaths. Use your gut with each inhale and exhale. Feel your shoulders and whole body move up and down with each breath.
4. Do that for like 3 breaths or maybe 3 minutes, if you have the time.
5. Feel better?
Sure, there might be an initial reaction, but in the moment, gain some clarity by stopping and taking those Ujjayi breaths. Trust yourself—the strength you use on the mat will help tenfold off it.
Use it. Feel it. Breathe it.
