In yoga, the breath isn’t just something that happens in the background—it is the practice. Everything else, from movement to mindset, follows the rhythm of your breath.

The way you breathe can anchor you to the present moment, calming your mind when life feels overwhelming or energizing you when you’re dragging. It’s the one tool that’s always with you, on and off the mat. When you start to tune into it, you realize how powerful it is.

One of the beautiful things about the breath is that it can guide your yoga practice. If your breath feels smooth and steady, you know you're in a good place. If it gets choppy or strained, it’s a sign to ease up. But it’s not just about yoga.

Your breath can be a lifeline in stressful situations, a way to slow down when your mind is racing or to spark energy when you’re feeling sluggish.

And here’s something interesting: ancient yogis believed your life span could be measured in breaths. They taught that slower, deeper breathing helped preserve your vital energy, while rapid, shallow breathing used it up faster. Whether or not you take that literally, it’s a pretty sweet reminder to savor each breath and live with intention.

So next time you roll out your mat—or just feel life pulling you in a million directions—come back to your breath. It’s always there to guide you back to the only moment there ever is - the Present Moment. 

Namasté,

gina

Ps. Want to learn more? Join us for a special workshop event in February, in-studio and zoom: Sacred Breathing: A Pranayama Journey. Learn more by clicking here.