The Art of Breathing

<p><b>What does mindfulness mean to you?</b></p> <p> Like many of us, we have heard about mindfulness. I knew that it implied paying attention, opening our awareness to what is happening now, in the present moment, and accepting it without judging or trying to control it.</p> <p>Mindfulness is unquestionably linked to breathing, yet we all know how to breathe because it is a natural phenomenon and doesn't need the practice anyway? </p> <p>Practising mindfulness by using your breath as the starting point and the focus not only opens your awareness to the present moment, which is what mindfulness is all about. </p> <p>Instead of worrying about the future or dwelling on past actions, you are focused solely on remaining in the present moment. Whereby, reduce rumination (say goodbye to overthinking everything!)</p> <p>Mindfulness originates from ""sati,"" a word in the ancient Indian language of Pali, which roughly translates to present-moment awareness. </p> <p>Mindfulness is commonly integrated into yoga and tai chi practices, as well as meditations.</p> <p>There's mindful walking and even mindful showers. However, the most popular way to practice mindfulness is through meditation.</p> <p>You probably already know that meditation is a practice in quieting your mind.</p> <p><b>Breathing meditation</b></p> <p><b>So what is mindful breathing? </b></p> <p>Being aware of your breathing means observing and opening your consciousness to your breath: to your breathing in, and you're breathing out, without controlling or judging it in any way.</p> <p><b>How to break a bad habit</b></p> <p>Many of us have forgotten how to breathe well. By adulthood, we've picked up some unhelpful breathing habits. A baby breathes deep into its belly in a slow and steady rhythm. Stress can cause the body to go into a "fight or flight state, making us feel wired and ready for action. </p> <p>One of the physiological changes we see happen in this state is that our breathing rate increases. Holding your stomach in, something lo