Pause Between Breaths

Today or this week, take time to observe the pause between your breaths, the pause between the inhale and the exhale, the exhale and the inhale. This pranayam practice is often called Kumbhaka. Retention after an inhale is antara and retention after an exhale is bahya. A teacher once told me that this natural unforced pause between breaths is stillness, the moment where we connect to our consciousness.

This is dharana, concentration. Remember that word? Use the search bar and discover more information here within this group from past postings, especially if you are just joining us!

I challenge you to sit with your eyes closed and follow your natural breath. Notice the length of your inhale, the length of your exhale, but also observe the natural stillness, the space between breaths. Without forcing the hold, just notice. What comes up here? What is present? Do you feel a connection to your Higher Self? To your consciousness? What is the sensation you get here? Can you rest in the peace of the moment, watching as a quiet observer, that which occurs naturally in your body each day? Can you allow your thoughts to quiet in these moments? Do you feel calmer and more at peace here? Maybe try this practice in a difficult moment. What happens?

You’ll learn this and many other practices with me. Join me in my public and zoom classes!