Breath. Something so simple, but so vital to our lives. Of course, we need to breathe to live but breath goes far deeper than that. Your breath connects you to the moment. When you are in the moment there is no room for anxiety, anticipation, or restlessness, only presence. Since I have begun my meditation journey (26 consecutive days and counting!), I have truly come to understand the importance of connecting to your breath. It turns you inwards, separating you from the outside world and tunes you into what you are feeling; physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally. It is amazing what you can find when tap into your self.
Try it. Close your eyes, inhale deeply and let your lungs fill with air. Slowly exhale through the mouth, letting go of anything that does not serve you in this present moment. On your next inhale, ask yourself "how am I feeling?". As you exhale, take a moment to connect with the answer. Maybe you notice a stiffness through your shoulders, or a tightness in your hips, or you may even feel a sense of anger or uncertainty. Regardless of what you feel take a moment to be with it, then exhale to let it go.