Page 100 - Total War on PTSD

There are many different pranayama practices providing different physical, physiological and biochemical effects on the body; either stimulating or soothing cells. The main objective of practicing pranayama is to achieve “normal
breathing” by the abdomen expanding on the inhale and contracting on the exhale or normalizing the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body. It is the practice of controlled inhalation, exhalation, retention and suspension of breath while moving the thoracic organs vertically, horizontally and circumferentially.
Each inhale brings in oxygen and prana; each exhale removes carbon dioxide, toxins and apana (downward and outward flow of energy) and each pause (kumbhaka) allows less oxygen absorption leaving more carbon dioxide in the blood which aids in the calming effect. This assists in quieting the mind. However, the stability of the mind is first achieved by the control of the body through the practice of asanas. The mind becomes peaceful when the health of the body occurs.
This regular practice cultivates a listening which gives space to what is, while deepening connections to who you are. Begin to ask what your body is communicating to you? What sensations are present? Where are you stiff, tense and stuck and what contributes to this state? You will find that the answers come easier the more you practice.
“I am a Connected Warrior. I have recently retired after 36 years in the military: 10 years in the United States Marines, 26 years in the United States Army. The last 19 years have been with the Special Operations community as a helicopter pilot deploying with the most elite forces that the U.S. military has executing missions in every environment that only the most elite can accomplish. I never titled myself as a warrior, but I was blessed to be around warriors of great bravery and commitment to defend and fight for the freedoms that we as Americans are so grateful for. The acts of heroism that I have witnessed go beyond the imagination where most people only see them on movie screens.
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