The most essential, precious, and somehow overlooked ability that we all have is the ability to breathe. It is the primary function that not only lets us know we are alive but also allows us to pursue any further challenges or passions in our lives. This is why the first exercise of mindfulness that was discovered was around the breathing of a person, whether it is to steady it, take longer breaths or use it to meditate, it helps us align our internal functioning and feel better.
The breathing or Prana exercise is a part of creating experiential awareness within ourselves. It is necessary for relaxation, concentration, and centering any nervous energy that may trouble us during the day. Some benefits of performing breathing exercises daily are:
- Decreases stress
- Improves sleep quality
- Improved lung functioning
- Decreases blood pressure
- Enhances cognitive functioning
In the following video, Ms. Jyoti Gupta guides us through a mindfulness exercise called the prana exercise. It is accredited to help people be present in the moment, enhance cognitive ability, calm us down, and build up awareness of our surroundings. She speaks to us throughout the exercise allowing our bodies and minds to completely relax, feel refreshed, and at peace with ourselves afterwards.