Breathing Is Living

By: Jantzen O’Toole

Breathing is life. It’s one of the most simple actions we do as humans yet, at the same time one of the most extraordinary things we do as living beings. Breathing is a reminder that we are alive.

In my opinion, breathing is one of the most underappreciated activities we do as human beings. Yet, it’s what keeps us alive and provides us with a gateway to better understanding ourselves. Noticing our breath provides us with the ability to understand the emotional state we are in as well as the ability to recenter ourselves. Learning to appreciate our ability to breathe helps us gain a greater appreciation for life and ourselves, as fascinating living organisms. No matter how little or how much you have, the richness of your life is determined by the appreciation you have for life, your appreciation for those who take part in your life, and your appreciation for those you come into contact with throughout your life.

As mentioned before, I believe breathing is one of the most underappreciated activities we do as human beings. The opportunity to enjoy the incredible experience of just one breath (the experience of life), is priceless. It’s easy to overlook however, there are times in life that provide us with perspective. For myself, it was a couple weeks ago when I lost my Grandpa, my biggest role model and recently as a society when we lost George Floyd.

Coming to terms that life can be lost at any moment, provides us with the reflection sometimes needed to remind us how fortunate we are to be alive and be able to share these experiences with others. What would life be like if you had no one to share it with? I think it’s our responsibility to live life to the fullest, for those who no longer can. Love others and love life by recognizing how lucky we are to take another breath.

By: Jantzen O’Toole