I always find it helpful to begin my yoga postures with simple controlled breathing exercises. It helps the body’s energies to become more balanced and calms the mind so that I can focus more deeply on the postures. Usually, I begin with a few rounds of simple measured breathing. Inhaling through both nostrils and filling my lungs from the bottom up ~ counting to 12, holding for 12 counts, exhaling completely to the count of 12 and immediately beginning again.

Breathing in, I feel my scattered energies gathering in the spine
Breathing out, cares and plans for the day melt away
The body relaxes and new life flows through me
I am centered in the Now

Sometimes it takes a few rounds of deep breathing to feel this affirmation coursing through me, but always, always at some point it takes hold and I am grateful for the technique that allows me to release stress and just Be in this perfect moment. Nothing and no one – not even my own mental citizens – can intrude on this moment in time.

 For the Present is the moment where time touches eternity — C.S. Lewis