Breathing Freedom - A Pesach Lesson to Revive Your Soul

PESACH, THE ZMAN CHERUTANU (TIME OF FREEDOM), IS AN IMPORTANT MILESTONE IN THE JEWISH CALENDAR. IT OBLIGATES AND HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE TO REFLECT DEEPLY AND DISCUSS WHAT IT MEANS TO BE FREE AND IS BEST UNDERSTOOD IN CONTRAST TO BEING ENSLAVED. PESACH ISN’T JUST A CELEBRATION OF HISTORICAL EVENTS; IT’S A TIMELESS INVITATION TO EMBRACE THE FEELINGS AND APPRECIATION FOR TRUE FREEDOM — CHERUT. 

Imagine what it means to be a slave without the freedoms we take for granted. The Torah describes the overwhelming hardship in Mitzrayim with the words Mikotzer ruach um’avodah kasha (From shortness of breath and hard labor.) This verse isn’t just describing physical conditions, but also a state of being: feeling so overwhelmed and stressed that it’s hard to breathe.

We verbally remember Yetziat Mitzrayim (exodus from Egypt) daily and have the opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate Hashem for taking us out from under this oppression and giving us the freedom to breathe and choose to live as Torah observant Jews.

THE POWER OF BREATH

Breathing is the most natural thing we do with or without thinking. Awake or asleep, air is the ultimate gift from the Almighty, freely given and always available. Yet, often, we take it for granted. Imagine for a moment what happens when someone can’t breathe. This reminds us of our fundamental need to appreciate life’s essential gifts. 

In times of great stress, whether at home or at work, it might feel like we can’t catch our breath. The first thing we can do is simply to breathe. Taking a deep breath can change a moment, shifting us from a state of panic to one of calm. It’s life-giving and can transform our perspective instantly.

CONSCIOUS BREATHWORK

Let’s explore, consciously acknowledge, and appreciate the gift of being able to breathe and all the goodness this unlocks for us and our families. Breathing allows us to think clearly, and be connected to Hashem who loves and constantly provides for you.

Dr. Fally Klein, a renowned transformational breathwork facilitator, commented that “G-d’s exhale is your inhale” highlighting a divine connection within and through every breath we take.

APPLYING BREATHWORK IN DAILY LIFE

Breathwork is not just for times of relaxation; it’s a practical tool for every day. Here’s how you can start using it:

Notice Your Breath: At least twice a day, pause for a minute to notice your breathing. Is it quick and shallow, or deep and slow? Just this awareness can help calm your mind.

Breathe Deeply: Regularly practice a deep breathing exercise. This will be especially useful when you feel overwhelmed. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale through your mouth. Repeat this four times and melt the stress away.

Be Gratitude: Each morning, as you take your first conscious breaths and say Modeh Ani, saying thank you Hashem for this gift of breath and another day of life. This gratitude sets a positive tone for your day.

BREATHING TO GET CALMER AT WORK AND HOME

Whether you are dealing with a tough day at the office or managing family stresses at home, remember you always have your breath. It’s a tool that requires no equipment, just a brief pause and notice. Encouraging your family or team to practice a breathing technique will help everyone remain calm and focused, ready to face whatever challenges come with a sense of renewed strength and clarity.

A CALL TO BREATHE

Engage with breathwork not just passively but as a practice and pathway to achieving a healthier, more centered, and spiritually connected life. I myself have personally committed to join an exclusive breathwork facilitation training with Fally, to help myself and clients gain deeper transformation faster.

Together, let’s learn to breathe a little more consciously, appreciate the simple, life-giving gifts from Hashem that often go unnoticed, and commit to being the heroes and guides in our own journeys and those we can influence.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Although Pesach recently ended, let’s remember that each breath we take is a gift and a reminder of our freedom. It’s a chance to reset, to fill ourselves with faith, hope and strength. With each inhale and exhale, we can recommit to living fully, to leading with compassion, and to teaching the next generation the value of Shalom — peace, both within and without.