Breath as a Broom - Spring Breathing Practice

Spring is a season of clearing.

We sweep our homes, open the windows, and let fresh air move through spaces that have been closed all winter. In much the same way, the mind also benefits from a gentle clearing.

In yoga, the movements of the mind are called vrittis - the ripples of thought that continually stir the waters of awareness. When the mind is busy and the body is heavy, these currents can feel muddy and dull. When life moves quickly, these currents can become cloudy and unsettled, like sand swirling at the bottom of a lake.

The breath offers a simple remedy.

Spring cleaning your space

Each conscious inhale draws in fresh prana, life force. Each slow exhale releases what has been held too tightly or settled too heavily within us. With a little attention, the breath begins to move through the inner landscape like a soft broom, sweeping away stagnation and restoring clarity.

We are not forcing the mind to be still.

We are simply creating the conditions for clarity to arise.

We are not forcing anything to leave.

We are simply inviting fresh air and movement where things have grown still.

Just as the warming sun melts winter’s heaviness, the breath helps settle the winds of vata and lift the heaviness of kapha, clearing the subtle pathways of the mind.

Woman doing Pranayama

A 1-Minute Spring Breathing Practice

You can try this right now.

Sit comfortably and allow your spine to be tall but relaxed.

Inhale slowly through the nose for a count of four.

Feel the breath move into the belly and ribs.

Exhale gently through the nose for a count of six.

Let the shoulders soften, and the mind release.

Continue this rhythm for about five slow breaths.

With each exhale, imagine the breath sweeping through the mind like a broom, clearing away scattered thoughts and leaving behind a quiet, open space.

Just one minute is enough.

One minute to clear the air within.

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If you'd like some support as we transition into spring to refresh your body and mind, I offer you my Rekindle Your Fire package.  

This offering includes diet and lifestyle guidance along with restorative bodywork that is designed to gently clear winter stagnation and prepare the body for spring without deprivation, pressure, or extremes.

This offering meets you where winter left you and holistically guides you into spring.

Connect with me for more information.