Balance Brings Clarity

This is the third post on yoga’s relationship with our respiratory system. The first two covered breathing to energize the body/mind and breathing to calm the body/mind. Now we turn to breathing that brings and maintains balance.
 
Balance, when intentionally cultivated, leads to focus, clarity and equanimity. These are exactly the qualities we need if we are having a crucial conversation, working on a project or sitting quietly in contemplation or meditation. Here are two Yoga practices that can lead the way:
 
Alternate nostril breathing: The two nostrils are aligned with our nervous system and have the special effect of being able to bring balance to the nervous system. Through the nerves, each nostril has influence over the opposite side of the brain. The right nostril influences the left brain which is logical, practical and detail-oriented. The left nostril influences the right brain which is creative, intuitive and fixed on the big picture. Depending on what we’re doing during the day, one nostril is more open and its companion side of the brain is more active. This means we do not have the full benefit of both perspectives most of the time.
 
What more could we see and understand if we brought balance to the right and left sides of the brain?
 
For this practice, it helps to use the fingers to close one nostril at a time. Over time it is possible to learn how to do this using the mind only! Sit still and close the eyes all the way or halfway. Close the right nostril and breathe in through the left nostril, then open the right side and close the left side to breathe out through the right nostril. Without changing the finger position, breathe in through the right nostril, then switch fingers and breathe out through the left nostril. This is one round. Practice for four more rounds.
 
Cross body movement: Yoga poses that ask us to move opposite sides of the body also bring balance to the brain and nervous system. Two examples are Cat/Cow/Birddog and Locust pose. Birddog begins in hands and knees. Inhale to lift the opposite arm and leg, exhale to return to hands and knees. Switch to the other arm and leg. Keep going for 10 repetitions.
 
Locust pose begins on the belly with arms and legs extending on the floor. Inhale to lift and reach opposite arm and leg, exhale to return to the starting position. Switch to the other arm and leg. Keep going for 10 repetitions.
 
Try one of these balancing exercises the next time you are working on a project, must have a difficult conversation, or are sitting in meditation. You’ll be surprised at what you can accomplish with enhanced clarity and focus.