Considerations Before and During Breath Practice
As discussed in prior posts, breath practice is known to have numerous benefits, including profound effects on all bodily cells and systems of the anatomy, specifically the brain, cardiovascular and nervous systems. In order to ensure breath practice is most beneficial, below are some invaluable considerations:
1. Environment- An appropriate, relaxed environment is beneficial to avoid overstimulation of the nervous system and the brain. An environment free of several obstructions, that is tidy, clean, and well-ventilated is most beneficial. Extreme, harsh lighting may cause overstimulation of the body's processes. More gentle, soft lighting is encouraged, but try to avoid overly dim lighting as well to avoid triggering a negative state in the nervous system, especially for those experiencing anxiousness, prior traumas, and PTSD.
2. Sound- Some may find that low ambient music is soothing in the background, while others may discover it's overstimulating and distracting. Sound is truly a personal preference, but it is usually not as beneficial set to high volumes for most individuals and is not encouraged. This is only my personal opinion and experience, but I prefer silence or the natural sounds of the outdoor environment. When I conduct breath practice in silence, it helps me to focus on breath and the sensations of my body appropriately.
3. Smell- During breath practice, it is most beneficial to avoid overstimulation of smell. Although candles are visually calming, if they emit a strong fragrance they could become overwhelming during inhalation. Breath practice requires deep breaths at times, and strong fragrances and matter from candles and incense could produce unwanted effects immediately or over time. If someone must have candles, then unscented would probably be more suitable, but generally, candles and incense aren't promoted.
4. Application- With any healthful activity, practice ensures understanding of engagement. Over time, practice is a guide in assisting an individual to have more in-depth experiences and discoveries of their body's cycles and rhythms that are relational to breath practice. Establishing some time daily for breath practice is ideal, and don't be afraid to venture into different variations and modes of practice as long as your body is comfortable and experiencing benefits.
5. Boundaries- Applying mindfulness when it comes to your body communicating with you, will prevent discomfort and frustration in the future. Avoid overexertion of the body and always disengage with practice if your body is experiencing abnormality before, during, or after breath practice. This may be a signal that another underlying issue is involved, or overexertion of the body is present due to unbeneficial ways of practice. With abnormal or persisting discomfort of the body, always visit your licensed healthcare provider to inquire if breath practice is suitable at the present time. Some abnormal or persisting discomforts may be dizziness and breathlessness, so please take heed during these occurrences.
6. Method- During practice, every count is approximately 1 second apart. This assists with a supportive rhythm for guidance.
This information is provided for general informational purposes and is not a substitute or definitive to replace physicians' care.