How One’s Breathing Evolves in Meditation

 

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How One’s Breathing Evolves in Meditation

Breath is the bridge between body and soul. It is subtle, constant, and deeply connected to our state of being. In Himalayan Samarpan Dhyanyog, breath is not manipulated - it is observed. And through this observation, a quiet transformation begins. The evolution of breath in meditation is not mechanical - it is mystical.

In our daily life, breath is often shallow, rapid, and unconscious. It reflects our mental restlessness, emotional turbulence, and physical tension. But when we sit in meditation, something begins to shift. As Swami Shivkrupanandji teaches, we do not need to control the breath. We simply sit in unconditional surrender, allowing the Guru’s consciousness to work through us. And as the mind settles, the breath begins to change on its own. I have observed my pulse going down to 40 beats per minute (Garmin sports watch proof) and sometimes I have noticed my breathing has stopped completely for several minutes at a time.

Initially, the breath may remain erratic. Thoughts arise, distractions pull us, and the body resists stillness. But with regular practice, the breath starts to slow down. It becomes deeper, smoother, and more rhythmic. This is not because we are doing anything - it is because we are undoing. We are letting go of control, and in that letting go, the natural intelligence of the body awakens.

In Samarpan Dhyanyog, the breath becomes a mirror. It reflects our inner state. When we are anxious, it is tight. When we are peaceful, it flows. Over time, as the energy of the Guru-element flows through us, the breath becomes almost imperceptible. It softens into silence. And in that silence, we begin to experience the Self.

This evolution is not linear. Some days the breath may feel heavy, other days light. But every session brings subtle shifts. The breath begins to guide us inward. It becomes a companion, a gentle reminder to return to presence. We start to notice the pauses between breaths - the stillness that holds everything. And in that stillness, we touch the soul.

Swamiji often says that the breath is sacred. It is the first thing we receive at birth and the last thing we release at death. In between, it carries the rhythm of our life. In meditation, we honour this rhythm - not by changing it, but by witnessing it. This witnessing is the essence of Samarpan.

As the breath evolves, so do we. We become more aware, more sensitive, more attuned to the divine flow. The breath teaches us patience, humility, and surrender. It shows us that transformation doesn’t come from force—it comes from grace.

Eventually, the breath dissolves into awareness. We no longer feel the need to observe it - it becomes one with our being. This is the state of dhyan, where the observer and the observed merge. In this state, the soul shines forth, and the body becomes a vessel of peace.

So, let’s all sit down and meditate with unconditional surrender at Swamiji’s Lotus Feet.   Let the breath evolve - not by effort, but by His divine grace. In the silence between each inhale and exhale, the divine awaits.