Belly Breathing vs. Diaphragmatic Breathing: What is the Difference?

Although belly breathing is usually equated to diaphragmatic breathing, offering a long list of benefits, there are some limitations to it that are rarely known.  Belly breathing can actually be detrimental in some aspects and it does not necessarily engage the diaphragm to its full extent. 

Diaphragmatic breathing, on the other side, is not only the foundation for meditation and pranayama practices but is also crucial for our mental and physical health and even for physical performance.  So let's discover what is the difference between belly breathing and diaphragmatic breathing and which one is best.

How to Sit for Meditation and Pranayama [with a Straight Back]

Sitting comfortably with the back straight and upright is one of the most important requirements for meditation and pranayama. Unfortunately, this is a skill that takes years to develop. But we can make this journey easier by adapting the posture to the limitations of our bodies.  Here are a few ways to achieve just that. 

5 Reasons to Sit Straight and Upright for Meditation (and Pranayama)

Photo by Max on Unsplash

If you've ever attended a meditation or a pranayama class you might recall the teacher asking you to sit with the back straight and upright.  But why? Why is it important to sit with the back upright?  Can we just lay down for meditation instead? I will try to give you a clear answer in this blog. 

The Problem with Meditation Apps. Do We Really Need Them?

Photo by processingly on Unsplash

I know, there is an app for everything, but do we really need an app to meditate? I've always had my reservations to use or even recommend any meditation apps, and I have very good reasons.  But nowadays I might be changing my opinion. Let me explain.

This is Why I didn't Stay in an Ashram in Varanasi

Beginning of this year, I visited one of the most iconic cities in India: Varanasi.  One of my intentions was to stay in an ashram in the holy city, but that proved to be difficult.  In the end, I had no choice but to stay in a guesthouse.  This is what happened.

I Visited Lahiri Mahasaya and Babaji's Cave Temple in Varanasi

If you want to experience the most authentic spiritual India and the most impressive Ganga aarti, then you have to visit Varanasi, one of the holiest cities in India. But what truly motivated me to visit this city earlier this year, is the stories of Indian yogis (such as Lahiri Mahasaya) who walked its streets more than 100 years ago.

What is Guru Purnima and How it is Celebrated

Photo by Lina Trochez on Unsplash

Today is a special day in India called Guru Purnima, a day when all gurus are honored.  To understand what exactly is Guru Purnima, why it is celebrated, how it is celebrated, and what foreigners can do on this day I decided to reach out to my friend Arvind Pare, a well known Vedanta teacher based in Mysore, India.  

The Mindful Eating Meditation I Do to Stay Calm (Step-by-Step)

15 years ago I discovered a simple mindful eating meditation technique at a Buddhist monastery in Nepal. It's been a lifesaver.  Today, whenever I notice that I'm eating in a rush, stressed, or anxious, I try eating mindfully using this method.  By the time I finish my meal I usually feel calm, present, and clear-headed.

The Beauty of Silence: Learning to Live Without Distractions

I know, this might sound like a strange question but don't you ever feel the need to switch off all distractions and just focus on what you are doing?

I mean, today's technology offers us endless options to keep ourselves busy even while doing mindless tasks.  We have education, information, and entertainment at the reach of our fingertips, and available 24/7.  

I totally love that.  But what if we just put our devices down and simply stay in silence?

TOP 7 Things to Do in JODHPUR in Just 2 Days

Jodhpur, the Blue City of India, is definitely a must-visit place in Rajasthan, and in only two days, you can explore most of its top sights. So, based on my recent trip earlier this year, here are the top 7 things you can do in Jodhpur in a two-day itinerary.