DAY 37: Practice Breath Awareness From an Early Age For a Healthy Mind
by Rajbir Kaur, Spiti, Himachal Pradesh (high altitude Himalaya), India, 1 August 2017
Respiration is the most important function of the body. It is a source of energy and life to the living being. Yet most people remain unconscious of this process. According to yoga science, breath and mind are reciprocal. If a certain state of mind results in a certain mode of breathing then conversely by adopting that mode of breathing consciously can evoke the corresponding state of mind. By consciously making the breath deep, even and regular, one will experience a noticeable release of tension and an increased sense of relaxation and tranquility.
So in this workshop young kids will be introduced to the practice of breath awareness. Breath is a bridge between the body and the mind. This breath of ours creates a bridge between our thinking process and body. If we maintain breath awareness while doing our day to day activities; we can learn to do our tasks more effectively by being fully present to the task at hand.
Breath is a co-ordinating factor between body and mind. Concentration on the flow of breath is one of the best ways to attain control over the modifications of the mind. When all the modifications cease, and the mind is calm and tranquil, one finds great joy within.
The basic principles in Breath Awareness is to eliminate the pause, jerks, noise and irregularities in the breath. And to make the breath; deep, smooth and continuous.
These teachings descend from the ancient yogic science. The Himalayas apart from the majestic views are also known for their spiritual heritage. Many sages have been living there and practicing the inner workings of life and self. They have passed on the tools and skills to humanity to channel the life force present in one to live a more healthy and holistic life.
So the aim of this day of learning to share Breath Awareness with the rest of the world, is a small step to spread their teachings.
I’ll be conducting this workshop in August 2017 with kids aged between 6–12 years in a village. As it’s really beneficial to sow the habits of correct breathing at an early age. We will be doing this in a village in the high altitude Himalayan region of Spiti, Himachal Pradesh. Spiti is a cold desert mountain valley in the northern region of India.
