Do you have stress in your day? Whether it’s a little or a lot, stress can have some unpleasant and unwanted effects.
Our brains higher thought processing ability can actually be turned off by stress. The digestive and reproductive systems shut down during times of stress. If this stress is chronic, then the body’s ability to fight off disease is compromised. Chronic stress will lead to you being sick in one form or another.
We have a tool we use every day that can help. Like anything we master and become good at we must practice. The repetition will help counter stress and the effects of stress.
It is the breath. When we breathe we inhale oxygen. Oxygen is utilized in every function of the body. We also exhale unwanted carbon toxins. The simple action of focus breath can slow down the heart rate to normal range, and help balance hormone levels. This action in turn will help support the higher thought process. It will also stimulate and support the digestive and reproductive systems.
Let’s try a simple practice.
Sit in a comfortable position. Close your eyes or slightly open them with a downward gaze. Inhale through your nostrils, noticing the flow of air through the nose and throat. Notice also how the lungs inflate like balloons. Then exhale, feeling your shoulders drop and your body relax. Even if for a brief moment. Continue this for 1 to 5 minutes. You can always set an alarm if need be.
Your mind will most likely begin the chatter. The thoughts might not stop. That’s okay. When you recognize you are in conversation with the thoughts or focusing on them, acknowledge that, then bring your focus back to your breath. Remember this is a practice. Repetition is good here. Try not to have judgment on whether or not you are succeeding. Just breathe.
I support you in your efforts. Have fun noticing your breath.
Be well…it’s a state of mind.
Christopher Coan
prasada whole being
christopher@prasadawholebeing.com
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