B R E A T H E

How many breaths per minute do you take? Take a few minutes and count them. Most people take 15-17 breaths per minute; however, we should be taking 5 – 7 breaths per minute. If we take less than 10 breaths per minute, it will require most people to pay attention to their breathing. It will require breathing slowly and deeply and exhaling fully. Most people just rush through the day taking quick, shallow breaths. Try it now, take slow, deep breaths and then exhale slowly and fully. Try to take less than 7 breaths per minute.

For one day, try to be mindful of your breathing, slow it down. Take deep breaths and exhale fully. Be mindful of your breathing. Try it when you are traveling behind that slow car, try it in line at the grocery store, take two deep breaths before speaking. Just for one day, could you be mindful of what is going on around you and be grateful for life and breath?

Two weeks ago, I spent a weekend being mindful of my breathing and having intentional moments of quiet. Additionally I spent time recording circumstances that I was grateful for. This slowing down of life and reflecting restored my soul. I wonder, is it possible to have mini retreats even in ordinary days of life? Is it possible to really experience life and appreciate it? How do you slow your life down? How do you cultivate a spirit of gratefulness and thanksgiving for each breath you take? From our first breath at birth until the last breath we breathe, we have something to be thankful for and the opportunity to experience the gift of life.