One breath!

Opinion

Shlomo Fishman

Capital Recreation is in business to make recreation accessible to all. I am not here to tell you the what, the who, and the when. I am here to support and encourage your positive behaviors. I am a Certified Recreational Therapist (CTRS) breaking down barriers to leisure and recreation participation. This blog is here as a tool to spread my personal thoughts and ideas. But most of all, to create community!

“My comfort zone is like a little bubble around me, and I’ve pushed it in different directions and made it bigger and bigger until these objectives that seemed totally crazy, eventually fall within the realm of the possible.” ~Alex Honnold 

In continuing with the February Heart Health theme, I would like to highlight some benefits of breathing and heart health. For me, it all started in high school when a teacher of mine realized I was in over my head with projects and assignments. He said, “just slow down and take a deep breath.” At the time, I was a teenager trying to find my footing. I must say that even though it’s been almost 15 years and would like to think I have grown a lot, I am still trying to find my feet under me. Initially I was hesitant to heed my teacher’s advice, though I did come around to adopting the idea of one deep breath when feeling stressed or overwhelmed. My teacher also taught me that deep breathing slows the heart, increases oxygen, blood flow to the brain, and to think with increased clarity. Like the Honnold quote at the top, taking one breath has – and continues to allow me to expand my personal bubble in all directions. It has allowed me to get up and face my biggest fears such as public speaking, introducing self to others, and to do this. 

If you are feeling a bit stressed or overwhelmed, I suggest you adopt the idea of ‘one breath’ to your daily routine. Whether it first thing in the morning, prior to a big meeting, or at the end of the day – I know it will help you. But most of all, it is good for your heart. 

Last but not least, take a moment right now and get yourself into a comfortable position. Close your eyes – take one deep breath through your nose – hold one second – exhale slowly through your nose. Seeing success? Add a second or third breath and share your journey here or on social media using the hashtag #shlomotrained. 

Until next time – peace, and virtual fist bump going your way!