Holy Breaths: Enhancing Mental Health with Pranayama

Article by Dr. Chelsea Washington, From the Fall 2024 Issue/Pranayama

Let’s face it: it’s so easy to forget to take a moment to breathe. Think about it! When did you last say, “Come on, body, let’s breathe.”? If you are a yoga teacher, you probably have instructed others to do this, but the average person does not say this to themselves or others. Instead, during the busy moments of life, while rushing from one task to another, juggling work, family, and personal commitments, there is little room to pause and catch your breath. Yet, breathing is one of our most powerful mental health and well-being tools.

Breathing is not about survival; it’s a divine gift that provides sustenance and nourishment. For Christians, integrating the ancient practice of pranayama with faith can offer a holistic approach to mental well-being. It encompasses various breathing techniques to calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve overall mental health. It’s like a heavenly pause button, allowing you to reset and reconnect with your inner peace. And the best part? These techniques are easy to incorporate into our daily routine, empowering you to take charge of your mental health with a sense of control and empowerment.

Imagine the transformative power of combining this ancient wisdom with the spiritual depth of Christian teachings. This synergy can enhance mental, emotional, and spiritual health, inspiring hope and fostering a profound union of faith, wellness, and healing. With a sprinkle of a deep dive into the scriptures, let’s uncover how this transformative power of pranayama can inspire hope and foster a profound union of faith and wellness, leaving us feeling inspired and hopeful for our mental health journey.

The Breath of Life

In the scriptures, breath is often associated with life and Spirit. Genesis 2:7 says, “Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.” This breath, or “ruach” in Hebrew, is seen as the spirit or life force from God. When we breathe, we inhale the essence of life God has given us.