Just Breathe

Are we born knowing how to breathe? I assumed so, until one Friday in 2019, during what I thought was a wonderfully relaxing massage. My massage therapist suddenly slapped his hand on my chest, jolting me out of my “relaxation.” He was concerned that I had stopped breathing. He had often suggested that I try yoga, but this time, he was more direct: “Please, take up yoga to learn how to breathe.”

Learn how to breathe? I didn’t realize there was more to it. His concern and encouragement stayed with me. I was unaware that I was a shallow breather. Why was I breathing this way? And could I really learn to breathe better?

Ironically, I had started regular massages because I knew I held stress in my body. I felt my shoulders were constantly tense, hovering close to my ears, but I hadn’t realized the extent of my internal tension. Shallow breathing was my body’s response to stress—an unconscious holding pattern that wasn’t serving me well.

Curious and hopeful, I began exploring different types of yoga. It was immediately clear how central the breath is to the practice—and to life. Yoga introduced me to breathwork techniques that were, at first, uncomfortable and unfamiliar. With practice, patience, and growing awareness, I began to understand the transformative power of breath.

Looking back, I’m deeply grateful for that wake-up call from my massage therapist. At that time, I was overwhelmed by stress, navigating toxic environments in both my personal life and career. My only peaceful moments were in my car, during commutes, with the radio loud enough to drown out my thoughts. I knew I needed change, one step at a time, starting with how I handled stress.

Learning to breathe fully through a regular yoga practice has changed my world. The simple yet profound act of mindful breathing has given me the strength to face challenges with clarity and grace—physically, emotionally, and mentally. My shoulders now rest lower, my mind feels clearer, and my heart beats with more joy.

Have you checked in with your body lately?

How does stress manifest within you? If you’re feeling tense, overwhelmed, or disconnected, consider the power of your breath. By reconnecting with it, you can find peace and strength even in the most challenging moments.

Take a deep breath. Just breathe. It may be the first step in transforming your life.