Breathe Deeply
“Smile, breath and go slowly.” - Thich Naht Hanh, Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk
This is the fourth in a 10-part series of posts on some simple actions that always lead to happiness! Read the original post that frames this discussion HERE.
Back a few years ago when I was in a very transformational mood I came across a blog that has had a profound impact on me these past few years. It inspired me to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, to embrace a minimalist lifestyle, and to be present in every sweet moment that life offers. The blog I speak of is Zen Habits by Leo Babuata. Here is a link to his blog. The page I pointed it to lists his 20 most popular posts. There are thousands of additional post full of golden nuggets of wisdom.
The first one I read was simply titled: Breathe. It is simply perfect. It is a wonderful reminder you can read every day in less than a minute that will impact your every minute if you embrace it. Here it is below in its entirety. Take a moment. Breathe. Relax. Read the words. Breathe. Let them wash over your every thought and concern at this very moment. No matter what you are dealing with in your life it will make things better.
Breathe.
Post written by Leo Babauta.
Breathe.
Breathing can transform your life.
If you feel stressed out and overwhelmed, breathe. It will calm you and release the tensions.
If you are worried about something coming up, or caught up in something that already happened, breathe. It will bring you back to the present.
If you are discouraged and have forgotten your purpose in life, breathe. It will remind you about how precious life is, and that each breath in this life is a gift you need to appreciate. Make the most of this gift.
If you have too many tasks to do, or are scattered during your workday, breathe. It will help bring you into focus, to concentrate on the most important task you need to be focusing on right now.
If you are spending time with someone you love, breathe. It will allow you to be present with that person, rather than thinking about work or other things you need to do.
If you are exercising, breathe. It will help you enjoy the exercise, and therefore stick with it for longer.
If you are moving too fast, breathe. It will remind you to slow down, and enjoy life more.
So breathe. And enjoy each moment of this life. They’re too fleeting and few to waste.
Tip: Put the word “Breathe” as a screensaver or desktop pic, or put it up as a note on your wall or fridge or on your desk. Then do it every time you see the word.
Thanks for this Leo. This post needs no further elaboration. Smile, breathe, and go slowly my friends.
