Mindfulness students explore two paths to calm and energy

Seamus O'Sullivan - Features Editor

Last Thursday evening, a dozen chairs formed a circle at the Champion Miller Center as Rev. Dr. John Huxtable guided the first session of his mindfulness course.

Huxtable introduced two contrasting breathing practices. The first, “belly breathing,” used long, deep inhalations to lower stress hormones and settle the nervous system. “It helps you slow yourself down and truly center in the moment,” Huxtable said. The second, “dynamic breathing,” featured quick, fast-paced breaths which he said is meant to sharpen focus and spark energy.

When asked which he preferred, Huxtable laughed “That’s a sucker question. I like both,” while saying the grounding calm of belly breathing is his personal favorite.

Huxtable’s advice to newcomers was to simply keep practicing. “It’s like any other muscle,” he said. “The more reps you get, the more natural it becomes.”

The Champion Miller Center will host the next mindfulness session on Thursday evening at 8.