A Reminder to Breathe

There are times when I’m pretty slack.  I don’t always keep up with my yoga practice. I find myself making excuses for why it’s okay that I take a day or two off. Then that day or two becomes a week or two and I begin to fall apart.

I get moody and my muscles ache.   I am irritable and short tempered and I literally start to get on my own nerves. I generally feel awful. Then I remember to breathe deeply, I inhale deeply into my abdomen and lumbar region. I drop my shoulders and expand my ribcage with each inhalation. My jaw relaxes and I can feel the stress of the day leave with each exhalation. Breath.  It is super simple and yet so profoundly game changing.

When I notice this pent up tension I also turn to herbs and essential oils, my allies that help bring me into a deeper state of relaxation and mindfulness. As I continue to breathe, I make a mild decoction of Ganoderma lucidum (reishi, ling zhi) to bring my intention inward. While drinking the tea I diffuse essential oils of Vetiver, Frankincense, Myrrh and Clary Sage. These oils center me and allow me to go deeper into my practice. After this small ritual, I begin my yoga practice and am more open to receive.

What essential oils or herbs have you found to be beneficial to your practice? I’d love to hear your experiences!

Forever Grateful,

Jessica