Posted: 03/06/08

"In the yogic tradition, the breath is intimately associated with prana, a Sanskrit term that means "primordial impulse" or "life force" . . . the vital energy that animates every molecule in the universe. Pranayama – the formal practice of regulating the breath – allows us to calm, cleanse, or invigorate our bodymind. In fact, many master yogis believe that pranayama is the essence of yoga. There are many pranayama techniques you can use to enhance your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. One of the most valuable practices is simply staying conscious of your breath as you practice your yoga postures. By focusing on the breath, the mind becomes more clear and quiet."

–Deepak Chopra, in the February, 2008 edition of his Namaste Newsletter.

"[In Yoga] it's not how flexible you are, it's not whether you can do the poses, it's not how much you can bend yourself, it's can you keep your breath [breathes in and out] consistent [breathes out] through whatever you are doing.

And the Yoga Masters say this is how it is when you follow Jesus and surrender to God. If it's your breath being consistent, It's your connection with God regardless of the pose you find yourself in. That's integrating the divine into the daily."

–Rob Bell, in a sermon entitled, "Breathe". You can hear the MP3 here. The quote is about 3/4ths of the way through.

"Is the name of God the sound of breathing?"

–Rob Bell, from his Nooma video, "Breathe"

By Ingrid Schlueter Email: vcyproducer@aol.com Click here for bio and archived articles