Breathing

"So, when we slow and open and center ourselves, we breathe in unison with all of life, and breathing this way we draw strength from all of life."  Mark Nepo

Nepo says that if we slow to the pace of creation, truth will sweep in.  Slowing our breathing slows our thinking, and allows us to see the miracles in the ordinary.  Many ancient practices advocate deep and slow breathing, so, too, do modern medical practices.  Our rate of breath is tied to our level of anxiety.  When we breathe deep and slow, we are relaxed.  When we breathe quickly and shallowly, we are anxious.  So, right in our midst we have a tool for relaxation.  Breath.  Relaxation techniques suggest 20 minutes a day of slow breathing can induce deep relaxation.  Yoga practice supports deep and slow breathing.  There may be much about which to be anxious in life, and in caregiving for someone with dementia; but it does not serve us or our health to be anxious.  Notice several times a day if you are breathing deep and slow, or quick and shallow.  Focus on breathing deeply and slowly.  Your body and your mind will benefit.