BREATHE! Remembering to breathe consciously sounds simple. Breath is the
anchor for our physical existence; however, I frequently observe people who are holding
their breath as they go about their life and work. There is a certain tension that is evident
on their faces, eyes are wide, shoulders are hunched, and words tend to come out in
subtle gasps as they engage in conversation. Interestingly, “Remember to breathe!” is
usually well received even if the advice comes from a stranger.
I saw a “breath-holding” scenario unfold the other day in a small café. The clerk
was preparing breakfast take-out orders for a few people who were gathered around the
cash register. Everything was very efficient, but there was not much conversation or
meaningful interaction other than the essentials for completing the transactions. I was the
last one to be served and the clerk laughed when I suggested, “Remember to breathe!”
She took a deep breath and proceeded to tell me how busy she had been, and that she had
not gotten the coffee station re-stocked. “I NEED to get that done”…she was back to
breath-holding again. She allowed me to help her refill the half and half canister and
sugar packets while she filled the pump pot with regular coffee, brewed the decaf, wiped
the counter clean and returned to the cash register. She gave me a vague smile, a quick
“thank you” and was off to her next task, shoulders hunched. New customers had
arrived.
I find it interesting to apply the “breath-holding” phenomenon to the WholeHeart
Wellness Model. As I glance through the chambers I recognize the impact breath has on
all aspects of our wellness. Combining the chambers serves to remind me that we are
entrusted with the task of balancing the various parts of ourselves as we strive for
wellness and I am left with questions that beg to be explored.
Has our way of life evolved into a stress-ridden combination of working at
breakneck speed and superficial interactions that result in mind-blurring fatigue and
breathlessness? How can we encourage a culture that allows spaciousness, engages in
meaningful communication, self-care and trust building? (Note: This is exactly what
WholeHeart strives to offer in our workshops!)
I am reminded that the word “breath” comes from the Latin word “spiro” which
means, “I live” which in turn is the basis for “spiritus” which means, “spiritual breath”.
Seems like the WholeHeart Wellness chambers are best served as we remember to
breathe consciously!
Terrie Keppel
Co-founder and Program Director of WholeHeart
October 12, 2016