Hindus call breath prana — the life force carried in the breath. In many languages the word for breath and spirit (life force), is the same. That’s how important the breath is. If nothing is done to restrict breathing, it happens naturally and fully. We inhibit natural breathing in many ways — poor posture, tight clothes, "speed-eating," exposure to noxious substances, smoking, lack of exercise, and habitual patterns of emotional stress.

When breathing is obstructed or suppressed, the cells in the body don’t receive enough oxygen to function properly. The result may be sleepiness, irritability, or a headache. One of the reasons that exercise is so valuable is that it forces one to breathe more fully, literally replenishing the dwindling oxygen supply.

Most of us are exposed to stress levels that wear us down, causing a variety of health problems. Stress plays a role in the development of every disease. If stress is balanced by relaxation or attitude-change methods, the stress-response can be modified or even channelled for creative purposes. If not, disease and breakdown often result.

Take a moment to note some of the stressful situations in your life. Some may be:

• Difficult people—adults or children?
• Interruptions when trying to work or rest?
• Too much work, too little time?
• Driving in traffic?
• Worries about health—your own or that of others?

Every tense situation, even memories of tense situations, cause changes in breathing. When in a stressful situation, pay attention to your breathing. Generally, the more stressed you are, the more shallow your breath becomes. This is why almost every approach to relaxation and stress management, focuses on breathing.

Breathe to Relax

This exercise takes only a minute or so to complete, and you can do it almost anywhere, at any time. If you can sit cross-legged, that would be ideal.

1. If you can safely sit with your eyes closed, do so, otherwise, just stop talking and attend to your breathing for a moment or two.
2. Inhale, and as you inhale, say to yourself: "I am..."
3. Exhale, and as you exhale, say to yourself: "...relaxed."
4. Continue repeating, "I am..." with each inhalation; " ...relaxed" with each exhalation.
5. Let the breathing gradually become a little deeper, a little slower, but don't force it in any way. Just feel it happening. As your mind begins to wander, gently bring it back to the awareness of breath and your statement, "I am... relaxed." Be easy on yourself. Continue doing this for a minute or two, longer if possible. Notice the overall effects of relaxation throughout your body.

You may want to choose a word other than “relaxed”—for example “at peace” or “love”.  Choose a word that brings you to a place of balance and harmony.