Online Class Notes (Jesse) [38]

Grammar

stressed – feeling
stressful – describes how sth makes you feel

when I see student they have the wrong pattern of breathing

Vocabulary

break even – not lose money
eg. we’re far (away) from breaking even

people watching 

Earth breath

I have heard from many students that they don’t know how to breathe smoothly or properly in yoga class, and wonder what they should do.
I have seen many students taking short, strained breaths during their yoga practice. This kind of breathing may eventually cause a stiff neck, tight chest, weak pelvic floor, and abdominal muscles, which may be hard to correct as the way we breathe is linked to the nervous system. However, there is a simple and intuitive way to bring our respiratory system back to its proper, natural state. When you see a gorgeous rose in a beautiful garden, what are you naturally compelled to do? We would put our nose close and take a deep, relaxed breath from the bottom of our lungs, through our bellies, to explore (and discover) the fragrance of the flower. This is a pure, natural, instinctive action and we call it “earth breath”. It brings you back to the present moment devoid of any mental distractions.

If you feel you may be confused about how to breathe, or unsure if you’re breathing properly during your practice, put a nose in front of you and take a whiff. Watch what happens and imagine doing this next time you’re practicing, and enjoy the inner space that comes.