What?  Just breathe? I know, I know…we do that all the time.  But answer me this….

Do you ever do it intentionally?

I think that if you sit back and think about it, you’d agree….sometimes just breathing deep, holding for a second or two, and then releasing slowly can be such a help in many situations….be it stress, anger, or effort, a deep breath (or ten) can heal you from deep within.

My trainer friend, Jeff Wooten, is a huge fan of what is called Dan (or Tan) Tien Deep Breathing.  It is based on the principles of Qigong, which relies on natural and holistic methods to remedy health problems. Here is a description of the breathing method that I found on this website:

The tan tien cleansing breath is a powerful, natural breathing exercise for both health preservation and self-healing, as well as for increasing your inner, vital energy. Based on natural, diaphragmatic breathing, it involves inhaling through the nose and directing the breath energy down into the lower tan tien, the area just beneath the navel, and exhaling waste products up and out through the nose or mouth while simultaneously condensing the breath energy into the cells of the lower abdomen. The tan tien cleansing breath requires a long, slow exhalation. By intentionally prolonging the exhalation, you not only promote the removal of toxins from your body, but you also help turn on your parasympathetic nervous system, thus furthering inner deep relaxation and healing.

There are so many benefits to doing this method of breathing each day.  My sister in law does it to some extent and calls it meditation…she allows a few minutes to herself each day to center and focus her inner person which helps her through the daily grind.  Others do yoga techniques or breathing controlled exercises.  It all leads to the dan tien though…..and if you can take a few minutes each day to focus on your ”self”, you’ll feel the effects throughout the rest of your day.  I find that doing this deep breathing makes me feel rested, focused, and more in touch with my physical self.  I more apt to realize if something is out of sorts which helps me stay on top of my game physically and mentally.  And it also helps me to realize that if I don’t take care of myself, then I will be less capable of taking care of those that depend on me for so much each day.

So I guess the point of this soap box is to remind you all to take a few minutes for yourself each day.  Appreciate what God has given you, breathe in the joy in your life and release the negativity.  I’m sure that you, and your loved ones, will appreciate it!