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Breath: An anchor to the present moment

Breath is the essence and elixir of human life. As long as we breathe, we are alive. Breathing is fundamental to our existence. In today’s fast-paced, busy world, we are often unconscious of our “breath.’’ Our minds tend to be more active in the present age when there are plenty of distractions around us. We all experience our minds racing amidst the memories of events in the past and towards the uncertainties and anxieties of the future. Our breath can play a crucial role in aligning us back to the present moment when we get astray in the spiral of thoughts. In both Buddhist traditions and contemporary meditation, focusing on the breath is recommended as a key technique for gaining mental serenity.

When was the last time we took a deep breath and connected to something that was lurking so close? “Breathing mindfully” can be a great stress buster and mood booster. This practice will gradually eliminate mental distractions and make us focused individuals. A small step can bring a great transformation by enhancing the overall quality of our lives. Just like an anchor prevents the boat from drifting into the sea, similarly, our breath would keep us anchored (grounded) to the present moment. We shall develop a deeper sense of presence as a result of this practice.

Let’s practice taking many deep and conscious breaths throughout the day. Pause for a moment, and then do the following: 
    • Close your eyes gently.
    • Keep your palms on your lap.
    • Find a quiet place, in nature if possible.
    • Bring your attention consciously to your breath.
    • Inhale deeply and exhale slowly with attention.
    • Let your body relax as you breathe.

If we incorporate this practice into our daily lives, it has the potential to significantly alter our lives. These epiphanies help us focus our attention on a worthwhile objective and bring us back to the present.


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