The older I get, I recognize more ways in which yoga has improved my daily life. One of which is breath control and the ability to focus and control my fears.
Since I was young, I have been trying to better myself, facing fears and stepping out of my comfort zone. Most of the time, these endeavors ended nicely but that did not mean there wasn’t real anxiety along the way.
Of what are you afraid? Do you have any real phobias that cause your body to tense up and your breathing to become shallow?
One of my fears is driving in unfamiliar places by myself in the dark. I am directionally impaired and have endless stories of getting lost.
But now that I have aged a little more, I find myself coping differently with the tightness in my chest. Breath control. It is amazing how a deep, steady inhale, and a deep, steady exhale can calm your brain and body and how a sense of control over something as natural as your breath can give you control over a situation too. It can bring a sense of strength and confidence.
Yoga teaches so many things. It goes way beyond physical health.
You become more focused and in control of your mind. And you can remain calm throughout your day by obtaining the skills of focus and balance.
What is a situation in which you have used a similar strategy to summon your courage? Do you have any fears that are no longer a threat because of a strategy you have developed? What was that?
I have a fear of a lot of things, such as pain, death, and not having control of a situation.
Deep breathing sure helps to calm me. Also reminding myself that God is in control. He tells me to trust Him and not be afraid.
Good point! Sometimes a deep breath is what we need to keep a clear mind and remember God is in control.