TODAY:   Continuing our series on release the false identities and beliefs that separate us from the love and connection we so deeply desire, today we will focus on the “I am not enough” false identity and releasing that which is not in alignment with the deeper truth of who each of us is.

Pranayama and Meditation

SITALI PRANAYAMA Sitali pranayama is a yogic breathing exercise that is designed to both calm the mind and cool the body. The term comes from the Sanskrit, sitali, meaning “cooling” or “soothing”; prana, meaning “life force”; and ayama, meaning “extension.” To practice sitali pranayama, the tongue is rolled and then the breath is drawn in through the tongue as if through a straw. Roll your tongue into a tube shape, or simply flatten the center and lift the edges as much as possible. – Take a deep, full inhale with an open mouth. – At the top of the breath, touch the roof of your mouth with the tip of your tongue and close your mouth. – Hold for a few moments. – Release through the nose. If you find it challenging to master this method, imagine “drinking in” the fresh air, using your tongue as a straw. You can repeat this practice for a few rounds, or until you feel cooled down (mentally and physically!). Breath is the essence of life, and pranayama helps us to connect with this amazing force, channeling it through the tired and anxious parts of ourselves and restoring our peace of mind. –I AM I AM MEDITATION This is a specific meditation for connecting the finite physical identity and the Infinite identity of the Higher Self. The first “I Am” emphasizes the “I” and is the personal and finite sense of self. The second “I Am” emphasizes slightly the “Am” and is the impersonal and transcendent sense of the Self. We all have thoughts about who we are – I am a woman, I am a mother, I am good, I am bad.  Beyond the descriptions that we have of ourselves and others is the reality that who we are is beyond description.  Who we are is an exquisite expression of the Divine.  This meditation will help your experience your true identity.  It creates a calm feeling even in the middle of a storm. Sit comfortable with your spine straight.  Take your left hand and place it in front of your heart about 6 inches away with palm facing you and fingers pointing up…  Inhale deeply and in a soft voice say, “I am,” bring your palm 2 inches closer to your chest and say “I am” and then move your palm 12 inches away and repeat, “I am.”  Inhale and bring your hand back to the original position.  Repeat for a minimum of 3 minutes, a maximum of 11 minutes.  Inhale and relax hands down into your lap.  Great to do in the morning to establish a calm center for your day.