Our breath is our very existence. It is what we come down to so it's no wonder to me why experts suggest breathing exercises for when we are stressed, upset, or need just a moment to gather ourselves. It's no wonder meditation often focuses on the slow work of breathing. Even in athletics breathing is important. I always found when I was coaching that athletes who were great at finding the rhythm of their breath to match their gait were more relaxed and could endure more. As I run, if I become stressed, it is my breath that first becomes hitched.
So without a doubt, the way we take in breath and more importantly, the way we release our breath is vital to our well being.
In much the same way, what we take in and more importantly what we let go of is also vital to our well being.
Paying attention to what we allow into our minds will often shine a light on how those things affect our mindset, our mood, and ultimately our well being.
