5 Breaths to Stillness

We are presented with challenges every day, some greater than others, though all requiring our attention. Ignoring them may work temporarily, yet will not give us resolve in the long term. Instead, this avoidance will create stress, which we all know is a slow killer. To defeat it, we must acknowledge our challenges, find our center, and then attack.

This is a practice that helps us all find our way through to peace. Here is a method I picked up in my own practice, and one I would like to share with you.

Let’s get right to it:

1. With eyes open or closed, sit or stand straight, take in a breath slowly and deeply through your lungs (as opposed to your belly).
2. Hold this breath for 5 seconds at the top, and focusing only on the breath,  count 1 BestGentleman, 2 BestGentleman…or Mississippi if you prefer.
3. Then release the breath (and the stress) slowly and deeply.
4. Repeat 4 more times.

That’s all there is to it…through our breath we will find our center. A new mind will present itself with the calmness and stillness you need to turn stress into peace. If you have the time, I suggest 5 breaths, although use your judgement based on the situation, as more or less may be needed and/or possible.

In privacy, go ahead and make your breaths audible, however, if you are in public (such as in a meeting), make it inaudible and undetectable.

Through peace, we are able to find new levels of wisdom, and more importantly, rise above our perceived struggles. The beauty in this practice is that you can do it wherever you are. You do not need to sit on a beach or mountain top, folded like a pretzel with your arms out and fingertips touching. No. This practice involves two of your greatest weapons, your mind and your breath, both of which you can take anywhere.

For a little more guidance, I leave you with this quote to take along your journey…

“There is no path to peace. Peace is the path.” – Gandhi

All the best in all of your life,

Nicholas Lucin