Change of Breath

About my breathing.

I have noticed that whenever I feel fear instead of faith that my breathing is quicker and more shallow. Just the practice of deep, slow breathing is very relaxing and calming. I am also realizing that my breathing isn't using my full lung capacity. Sort of like my life in general. I am not using my full brain capacity either, which isn't a big surprise, I'm sure.

I have also discovered that instead of breathing by puffing out my chest (which needs all the extra expansion it can get), in order to breathe properly I should be pushing my stomach out while I inhale (which doesn't need to stick out any further). Who would have thought that breathing improperly could have started out as a vanity issue.

Russell M. Nelson said, "when Jesus said 'repent,' He asked us to change—to change our mind, knowledge, and spirit—even our breath. A prophet explained that such a change in one’s breath is to breathe with grateful acknowledgment of Him who grants each breath."

I am committed to practice correct breathing at random times and places with gratitude. I decided to occasionally stop whatever I am doing and take deep breaths in at the count of 7 then hold for 7 counts and exhale for 7 counts. Some other times for focusing on the breath is when I am waking up and drifting off to sleep, stopped at a stop light, etc. I had even thought that it would be good to practice my breathing while visiting the ladies room. Whoa, Einstein, that wasn't such a good idea. That is not the place to practice deep, long breaths.