October 14, 2019 at Destiny Community Cafe
Presented by:
Dr. Sundar Balasubramanian, MUSC Department of Radiation Oncology, Founder, PranaScience
Marielena Martinez, MFA, local artist and STEAM educator
Cultivate SciArt celebrated Indigenous Peoples Day on October 14th with a free community dinner, thanks to the sponsorship of our partners and event hosts, Holy Cow Yoga Center and Destiny Community Cafe
Participants enjoyed delicious food and great company at this science and art mashup that featured breathwork with Dr. Sundar Balasubramanian and mandala drawing with artist Marielena Martinez.
The Science of Taking A Deep Breath
Dr. Balasubramanian, whose research focuses on on cancer biology, radiation therapy, and yoga, is the founder of PranaScience and author of several books, including of Mind Your Breathing, The Yogi's Handbook with 37 Pranayama Exercises. He introduced participants to the proven science behind the ancient practice of Pranayama by discussing the positive changes noticeable in the body after taking on a breathwork practice. In addition to improving sleep quality and lowering blood pressure, breathwork can increase mindfulness, cognitive performance, and saliva production, which is essential for immune health.
Dr. Balasubramanian introduced some of the many types of breathing exercises, and the group practiced several together. While all techniques increase breath capacity and offer benefits to the practitioner, they vary in method and type. Some slow the breath down, relaxing the nervous system, while others feature rapid breathing to increase energy and warmth in the body. Most are safe for everyone to practice, however a few of the advanced techniques should be avoided when certain medical conditions, like asthma, are present. Here are some great breathing exercises for beginners.
One of the best things about breathwork of any kind is that it is portable, accessible, and free! You can practice in line at the supermarket, at a red light, or right in your cubicle. Here's some curated breathwork exercises to try while on a walk.
What did you find most interesting to learn about?
What techniques help you remember to check in with, slow down, or otherwise regulate your breath?
Pranayama is a prerequisite to learning the skill of meditation. Do you have a meditation practice?
Mandalas: The Art of Pattern
Round and round within a square -- Designs with intention.
The Mandala, a geometric design featuring radial symmetry, has been in existence since the 4th century. It was first used by Buddhists in Tibet, India, Nepal, China and Japan for spiritual exploration and ritual expression.
Today, people all over the world are drawn to the repetitive nature of the mandala's design, and the peace it brings to the viewer, as well as the artist working on its radiating patterns.
Local artist, Marielena Martinez showed us several ways to start our designs and provided tips for keeping patterns simple yet striking. Participants slowed down their breath as they embarked on the project, keeping steady, and drawing with intention and care.
Interested in Drawing a Mandala?
We are too! Here are some ways to get started.
•Watch Buddhist Monks creating a sacred mandala here
•Learn about radial symmetry and follow these simple DIY instructions to start your drawing.
Labyrinths -- Walking in a Circle
Calm your mind as your feet take you inside the circle of a labyrinth
•Visit these walking labyrinths in South Carolina
•Use this international labyrinth locator to find a labyrinth anywhere in the world.
Ready to Start a Breathwork, Meditation, or Yoga Practice?
Want to know more about practicing breathwork, take a course, watch a podcast, or read an article?
Visit PranaScience
The Dharma Center at the Charleston Tibetan Society
Find a class for you at Holy Cow Yoga Center
Meet our Community Partners!
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