July 7th, 2016 at The Good House, Charleston
Presented by:
Dr. Sundar Balasubramanian, MUSC Department of Radiation Oncology, Founder, PranaScience
Lee Wieland, local artist
The Community gathered at The Good House, 2 Canal Street, for potluck and a SciArt mashup of yogic breathing and Ebru artmaking. CharlestonGOOD hosted our presenters, Dr. Sundar Balasubramanian and Lee Wieland this evening.
You have all the equipment you need to start-- Find an upright seat, turn inwards, and breathe...
Pranayama, breathwork, regulated breathing... all are terminology for the techniques that control the breath. Breathwork is rich in health benefits and accessible to all, without prescription, apparel or costly memberships. In fact, it can be practiced anywhere, at any time, by everyone.
As a cell biologist, Dr. Balasubramanian, researches the effects of yogic breathing on salivary biomarkers, nerve growth, and the immune system. As a yogi, he knows that yoga practitioners throughout the centuries regard Pranayama as one of the fundamental limbs of the 8-Limbed Path in their philosophy for good reason--concentrating on the breath reduces stress, increases concentration and sharpens focus.
As participants settled comfortably to practice a few breathing exercises, the atmosphere in the room changed from the buzzy energy of social connection and mingling to an overall sense of quiet and calm.
More than calm-- Dig Deeper into the science behind Breathwork
Chronic stress can wreak havoc on our bodies. Our nervous system is designed to go into protection mode,, known as "fight or flight," when presented with an immediate danger. Adrenaline and cortisol production increase to keep us alert, active, and safe against the threat. When continuously exposed to stressors, the body remains in this heightened state, and we don't get to benefit from returning to "rest and digest" mode. This means we cannot properly repair inflammation and nerve damage, and puts us at a higher risk of a wide range of ailments. Yogic breathing is a proven, accessible way to counteract the effects of chronic stress.
“Yogic breathing is very easy to learn and practice,” he says. “Deep, slow breathing causes the breath rate to go down, and that sends signals to the brain to relax. It also increases the ability to memorize and focus; it improves circulation and lets the cardiovascular system work at its optimal level.” --Dr. Sundar Balasubramanian
Dr. Balasubramanian's research shows that saliva production and nerve growth factor can be increased with regular breathwork practice. Both have wide-reaching impacts on our immune system and overall health.
"Our research has shown that breathing exercises can improve salivation and increase proteins in the saliva that are linked to improved immune function and proteins like nerve growth factor, which helps improve memory and plays a role in Alzheimer’s. We want to study that further.”
--Dr. Sundar Balasubramanian
What did you find most interesting to learn about?
How do you regulate chronic stress in your daily life?
What health issues affecting Americans concern you the most?
Do you have a breathwork or meditation practice? What has worked well for you to maintain this practice?
Fluid and Intentional- Painting on water allows time to breathe, to plan, to create.
After sharing his research, Dr. Balasubramanian and our guests learned about the ancient Turkish art of paper marbling, known as Ebru from local artist Lee Wieland.
As participants readied themselves to create modern versions of Ebru, or marbled paper, Lee Wieland demonstrated the suspension technique of adding liquid paint to a tray of water mixed with a surfactant agent, or a thickener, like seaweed-derived carageenan.
As the paint floated, suspended by the treated water, art makers took their time to organize color choices and play with the size, placement and balance of their swirled images.
Below the Surface
Learn More about the Ancient, Vibrant, Endlessly Varied Art of Ebru
Art Historians believe the first Ebru workshops were held in Istanbul during the mid-16th century, and the art form itself is thought to have started during the 13th century.
Different motifs and patterns were used in different applications, such as calligraphy writing pages and book decorations, and religious texts.
Modern day applications can be seen everywhere, from bookmaking to wallpaper and clothing, and, even more recently, in body painting for art & music festivals.
Want to see more Ebru made by artists around the world?
Learn the names of Ebru patterns and motifs, and watch Ebru-making in vivid color.
Classical Ebru Designs
Do you enjoy Breathwork, Meditation, or Yoga?
We do too! Here are some ways to connect with local classes/events:
Take some time for you--explore the links below and see what Charleston has to offer
Thanks to our Community Partner!
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