Why the Breath?

From the yogic perspective, the breath is the bridge that links body and mind. The breath reflects what is going on in the body-mind. For example: when we are angry, the exhale is difficult; when we are grieving, the inhale is shallow; when we get a fright or injure ourselves, there is an immediate and sharp intake of breath. The breath is our intervention point in the nervous system and its habitual patterns.

Inhale

Other benefits of conscious breathing include:

  • By directing our attention towards the breath in our practice we strengthen our ability to be absorbed in our activities off the mat

  • The breath is a source of energy for the body and mind. Deep breathing provides clarity of mind.

  • The inhalation is stimulating and strengthening.

  • The exhalation is a reducing, cleansing and soothing breath. It is unparalleled for releasing stress and tension from the body and mind. It can be used to calm someone who is angry or anxious.

  • Deep breathing lowers high blood pressure, increases immunity, and is good for heart and blood health.

  • When the breath is carefully applied, the advantages of deep diaphragmatic breathing surpass those from physical exercise alone.

Research supporting Yoga in schools

There is a wealth of research evidence to support Yoga in schools as a powerful intervention into youth mental wellbeing.
Results of practice include:

  • Release stuck emotions and overbearing thoughts allowing teens to process their experience and move on.

  • Develop self-knowledge of body, mind, and emotions and the ability to self-regulate.

  • Go through life with a set of breathing techniques to stay grounded, focused, and resilient in peaceful and difficult times.

  • Focus better at school and retain information more easily.

  • Reduce the negative effects of ADHD by helping students to develop clarity and focus.

  • Decrease stress and improve sleep.

  • Increase body-confidence by providing a non-image based way of being with one’s body and nurturing it.