Contributed by Taylor Stone

"Breathing may be considered the most important of all the functions of the body, for, indeed, all the other functions depend upon it."

- Ramacharaka: Hindu-Yogi Science of Breath

Breathing is something that comes to us naturally, right?  Wrong! Oftentimes, our breath becomes habitually modified and restricted in a lot of ways ways. Over time, we unconsciously develop unhealthy habits, like slouching, which diminishes our lung capacity and shortens our breath. Unfortunately, we also live in social conditions that continuously compromise our respiratory system.

There is an obvious connection between respiration and mental well being. Improper breathing produces diminished mental ability and mental tensions produce restricted breathing.  The ancient yogis knew the importance of correct breathing and developed techniques to increase health and life span. Here are just a few of the health and wellness benefits produced by deep breathing:

• Increase in the digestion and assimilation of food.
• Better quality of the blood due to increased oxygenation in the lungs helps with the elimination of toxins.
• Healthier nervous system:  the brain, spinal cord, nerve centers and nerves. The brain requires 3xs more oxygen than the rest of the body and has far-reaching effects on our well being.
• Rejuvenation of the skin, including smoother skin and less facial wrinkles.
• Improved blood circulation to the abdominal organs: the stomach, small intestine, liver and pancreas.
• The lungs become healthy and powerful which is a insurance against respiratory problems.
• Deep, slow, breathing reduces the work load for the heart. The result is a more efficient, stronger heart that operates better and lasts longer.
• Relaxation of the mind and body.

Breathworks Workshop
Saturday, October 24, 2009, 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Body Balance Studio
370 McLaws Circle
Williamsburg, VA