“Conscious breath control is a useful tool for achieving a relaxed, clear state of mind.” Dr. Andrew Weil
It is the time of year to take a minute to breathe. We are beginning new routines and are spending long hours in preparation for classes and rehearsals. I am watching my friends and colleagues talking on social media about the time they are spending getting ready for the teaching day. Do you consciously consider sitting for a brief time to breathe as you move between tasks? Do you practice inhaling and exhaling while you are driving in traffic?
Establishing a brief time to breathe each day can be as simple as being seated in a chair and relaxing your eyes. Count to four as you inhale and exhale for eight counts. Try this simple pattern three times between classes or tasks. Dr. Andrew Weil, quoted above, has a series of guided breathing exercises he has recorded that can guide your practice. It is also okay to practice mindful breathing with your ensemble. As they enter your rehearsal space they are often preoccupied with the distractions of the day, whether it be from physics class or a day of work.
Take a moment to remember that the breath that fuels our choirs’ sound also renews our patterns in rehearsal and life. It is time to remember why we chose this career. We bring joy to the world and an opportunity to create community. As our email boxes begin to overflow with questions and requests for volunteering, performing and donating our energy take the time to breathe before you answer. Set boundaries for yourself that you can live with a week and a month from now. And remember, calming your mind can be as simple as a set of breaths away.
Lucy Hudson Stembridge says