Peace in Prana

How many times have you rushed the kids out the door, five minutes after you intended, hustled them in the car, buckled the car seats, jumped in the front seat, fumbled for your keys, only to realize you left them inside?  The stress of getting yourself and little ones ready for the day can make even the most organized moms forgetful.  Recently I found myself at a coffee shop 15 miles away without my wallet.  I was there for a collaborative meeting with another freelance writer and business owner, and I had zero cash.  Luckily I had a checkbook and the local branch of my bank let me withdraw from my account.  But the lesson here was that I needed to slow down during the morning rush, and make sure that I had everything needed for my own morning’s agenda.  My time is too valuable to waste making up for my forgetfulness.

When we are stressed, we take shallow breaths, which deprive the brain of much-needed oxygen.  By taking stock of stressful moments, one can practice pranayama (breath control) by simply slowing down and deepening the breath.  One can think of this as “Take Five” breath, slowly counting to five as you inhale, and again as you exhale.  This simple technique will bring calm and clarity to your mind, and will help you stay focused and sharp, no matter what the situation.

For a deeper understanding of pranayama, as well as techniques to incorporate it into your life, see Yoga Journal’s informative piece, Blissful Breath.  And next time you are rushing your child to finish her breakfast or comb her hair, maybe take a look in the mirror — you may have forgotten this task yourself!

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