Our Breath is the Connection

Conscious awareness of your breath can guide you to peace in a moment.

~Yogacharya Ellen Grace O'Brian

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As you know, the simplest technique we teach in our classes is to focus on the breath. Why? Because it is always there with us, so easily accessed and it is not complicated. Also, it is very powerful. In Sanskrit, the breath techniques that can be used are called pranayama. Prana is the life energy that flows through us; the energy that sustains the body. Ayama translates to extend or draw out. Pranayama is breath control.  It is taught that the breath is our connection to our soul — that place within that is peaceful, content and wise.  Our meditation practice teaches us to notice and rely on our breath to calm the myriad thoughts in our mind.  Throughout our day, as we notice that we may want to react instead of respond to a situation, one conscious breath can transport us to a calmer state of mind. Take the time to take that breath. It only takes a moment.