Noticing my breathing - Mindfullness
 

When I was in rehab, my counselor loaned me a book called, "the miracle of mindfullness". It helped me notice how scattered my thoughts were, especially going through opiate detox and suffering PAWS.

Now 3 months later, I'll think about it and take notice of my breathing. Something about it is immediately comforting and calming.

I don't have 15 posts so I can't post a link, but if you Google "the miracle of mindfullness pdf" you can download it.

It has helped me relax and get refreshed when I'm feeling stressed of just kind of overwhelmed with learning to be sober.

Take care,

- D

Thanks for sharing! I'm interested to read it. Recovery is a lot about mindfulness.

You're right, breathing properly can really help. I often talk about 'belly breaths' which really help in anxiety/panic situations.

Thank you Snotchy

"Belly Breathing" - Yes...

I learned to do this when I was studying voice way back when.
My instructor explained it as, "watch how an infant breaths. They don't hold in their stomach, they let it drop when they breath in, allowing the diaphragm to fully expand.".

You may not look like a posing bodybuilder, but you'll get some good deep breaths! ;-)
Just be careful not to hyperventilate!

Belly - funny word.

Cheers - D

This may not be the same, but being athletic and exercising most of my life, I realized early on the importance of breathing. Controlled, relaxed, and yet focused breathing. Super important in my opinion.

Something else I learned and I'm sure this is not related but could be considered mindfulness is when I have been hungover badly or in minor withdrawals, I knew the thoughts that went through my head were false. It was the alcohol talking, doesn't always make it easier, but I am completely aware that any bad thoughts or panicky thoughts were a lie, they were heightened by the alcohol. 2 cents, that all.

Thanks Snotchy

I don't think mindfulness is a "miracle" but I do think of it as a clarifyer or something that focuses a bit on what is important

I agree, no miracle, but what I find interesting, is after reading the book, I can be working at my computer or driving, etc. and if I just take notice of my breathing I feel more centered.

Just something I've found myself doing the last few days and thought I'd share.

This is an excellent forum.

Thanks all,

- D

Yes there is a lot to this mindfulness stuff. It's actually something that teachers in Canada are increasingly incorporating into the curriculum. There's an extensive program called "Mind Up" developed by the actress Goldie Hawn of all people.

VERY premilnary studies have shown a positive correlation between students who mindfully breath 3 times a school day and academic achievement.

I personally try teaching it to my students as many of them come from homes where they have had traumtic experiences, and as a result are often stressed easily.

Thank you, Snotchy! Good reminder. I hope I will remember to do that next time I get stuck in a little storm in my head that won't go away.

This book really helped me in early recovery, and I meditate most days since: Mindful Path To Addiction Recovery