Set Higher Standards by YogiRavi

When I listen to someone breathing, I know everything I need to know about their mental and emotional condition in that moment. As a yoga teacher, I spent a lot of time listening to people breathe.

Fast and quick breathing is indicative of an unsettled mind. A mind that is still thinking about the workday or the commute to the yoga studio or what they are going to eat for dinner or what they are going to do over the weekend.

An even and steady breath is indicative of a balanced and calm mind. A mind that is at peace with the current moment, and probably is well rested, nourished and present.

If the breath is such a strong indicator of one’s emotional and mental condition, could it not work in reverse? Could one bring about a more balanced and supportive mental and emotional state by simply focusing on the breath alone?

Absolutely.

I’ve been fascinated with the study of endurance for years. I am always amazed at people who are able to endure and outlast more than anyone else.

In the case of endurance, the best study is through direct personal experience. In my own experiences of pushing my edge -  whether through racing Ironman Triathlons, cycling 200+ miles in a day or swimming across Puget Sound – I’ve discovered more about my self than through anything else.

By enduring, I’ve also stumbled across a few techniques that anyone – regardless of physical ability – can apply to significantly increase endurance.

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