𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧, 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐮𝐭

                   𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧, 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐮𝐭

Breathing is a fundamental physiological process that sustains life, providing our bodies with the essential oxygen required for cellular function. Beyond its biological significance, the act of breathing carries profound implications for our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. At its core, breathing is a rhythmic exchange between inhalation and exhalation, a dance that mirrors the ebb and flow of life itself.

I would want to share my thoughts on breathing with few of the events that have occurred in my life. 

The divine breath

I am a fully believer in God. By religion, I am a Hindu.However, I am a person who only believes in one deity, independent of caste or religion. Being deeply religious, I used to go to churches and temples for prayer. The fragrance of candles, agape, flowers, a ghee lamp, and freshly till soil are my favourites. It seems as though I live in a divine universe. My heart beats happily and remains regular, and I breathe as if I'm not even aware that I'm breathing. BUT..........there will come a time when I lose all focus and begin to smile while taking deep breaths. Yes, we will receive the "Prasadam," which translates to "holy food" from Sanskrit ,when all the pooja is completed. "Prasadam can be explained as something that has been offered to God, which now has spiritual benefits" .

That was the day my mother and grandma and I went to a Hanuman temple for the first time. I had a lot of questions concerning my visit. The "sreekovil," which is where all the offerings are done, was closed for prayer when I arrived. I was completely absorbed in prayer, as was everyone else there. Suddenly, the devotee opened the door, and everyone began to pray aloud. However, I looked in a different direction. Yes, it took me a while to realise that the "Medu Vada," one of my favourite snacks, is served in Hanuman temples as the sacred food.  From a calm breath to a panting moment of happiness. That's how I felt my breath.

Our breath changes to a different level at certain unexpected situations. In addition, our breathing is more significantly impacted by the fluctuating emotions at those times.Mindful breathing invites us to observe each inhalation and exhalation, fostering a heightened awareness of our internal landscape. As we cultivate a conscious relationship with our breath, we embark on a journey inward, discovering a sanctuary of stillness within the rhythmic rise and fall of our chests.One of the funniest and happiest moments of my life was this one. It could not always be the same, though.

BUT WHY?

I'm a student pursuing a master's degree in interior architecture and design. In addition, I'm a part-time employee of one of Northend's restaurants. Since it's only a 30-minute walk from my house, I used to commute by foot for the shifts. I also like to take walks while listening to music. I was headed to shift like any other day when, halfway down, I came upon a small road and a bunch of adolescents surrounded me. I was shivering on the inside. However, I kept it to myself.Out of nowhere, two of the group's girls gave me a strong hug and tugged at my hair and bag. My breath left me completely.However, I was receiving advice from a part of me to remain silent and not to respond. I dismissed their bothersome behaviour with a simple smile and continued going forward. Nothing happened, thank God. I tried walking as quickly as I could after that, though. I thought I was strolling, but in reality, I was racing to regain my breath and make it to the restaurant where I work since the sensation of being harassed had taken over my life. That was the most unstoppable breath I have ever taken in my life.  

Breathing extends far beyond its physiological role. It is a bridge connecting the conscious and subconscious realms, a gateway to mindfulness and presence. The way we breathe can influence our mental state, modulating stress levels, promoting relaxation, or energizing our being. In the cadence of our breath, we find a powerful tool for self-regulation and emotional balance.

Fig:1

                                                                   Fig:1

Fig 1 & 2: An illustration of my breathing throughout my daily morning routine