1/20/05: Breathing

Have you noticed that the moment we are agitated, we stop breathing? Literally, for a moment, our body tenses up and we stop taking in air. Then, after a few seconds, we release the pent up air and out comes the agitated words or reactions along with it.

When someone says or does something that bothers you, in any way, the first thing to remember is breathe. Holding our breath and tightening up is a defensive habit, as though we are bracing for an attack. This habit is based on fear and can be broken if we simply shift our focus.  

In martial arts, one is taught to go with the momentum of the opponent. If they strike you, do not stand firm, clenched and wait for the strike to hit you hoping it won't hurt. Instead, be loose and flexible, moving your body in unison with their strike.

When we breathe, especially deep breaths, our body is taking in the necessary oxygen it needs to relax, to be light and loose. In this way, it is actually more prepared to defend itself than when it is tense and has no oxygen.

It works the same way for your mind. If you are being mentally or verbally attacked, by breathing, you allow your mind to ACT from a point of calm and strength, not REACT from a point of fear and pain.

Breathe, and the world will breathe with you.