Finding Inspiration in Breathing Deeply

As we enter a new year, it’s common for us to experience a sense of renewal and to celebrate a clean slate.  Many people will make New Year’s resolutions. Some will keep the bar low as to not fail, while others will reach too high only to see hopes of success quickly fade.

A recent study published in Inc. found that the top resolutions of 2019 range from dieting and being healthier to reading more or saving money. Nearly 60 percent of people say they make a resolution each year while only 8 percent achieve them. Those are odds I don’t want to play.

Determined to succeed and make an impactful change in my life, I searched for inspiration— and it’s ironic what I found. There are many definitions of the word inspiration, but for me, the most profound definition is “the drawing in of a breath; inhalation.”

This year, I want to be inspired to an entirely new level. I want to consciously breathe in more deeply and take in more deeply. Consider how you feel when you take a big, deep breath – refreshed, calmer and in control.

Although all human beings have the power to breathe deeply, the act of doing so often lies dormant. According to a Harvard Business Review article, “Reawakening it allows you to tap one of your body’s strongest self-healing mechanisms.” Now, that’s powerful magic accessible to every human being.

Sometimes big things – an idea, a stroke of brilliance or more creativity – start with something much smaller. So in 2019, I’m going to activate one of the smallest yet most powerful tools I have available to me. I want to take more deep breaths to clear my mind. I want to take more deep breaths to welcome peace and calm. I want to take more deep breaths to reach my soul and inspire it to sing. I want to take more deep breaths to neutralize the negativity that often surrounds us. I want to take more deep breaths to feel renewed – over and over again.

It’s time for everyone to practice this art. Try it with me . . . close your eyes and take a BIG DEEP BREATH. Feel better, right?

“When you own your breath, no one can steal your peace.” – Unknown