Why Breathe Possessiveness

"72,000 nadis" refers to a concept in Ayurveda and yoga, describing a network of subtle energy channels (nadis), that distribute prana (life force) throughout the body not physical nerves. These channels are believed to be spiritual or energetic, originating from three main nadis—Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna—which are central to the spinal cord and chakras. The goal in yoga and Ayurvedic practice is to keep these channels clear and unblocked to ensure the free flow of prana (breath) for health and spiritual well-being.

In spirituality, breath is seen as a connection to the divine representing life, soul, and spirit.  It is used as a tool for mindfulness and meditation across various traditions. Breath moves us physically and it also moves us by impacting our mental and emotional states. Controlled breathing can reduce stress and anxiety, promote a sense of calm, and improve mental clarity by strengthening the autonomic nervous system and influencing the brain.

A spiritual teacher pointed at his ashram roof top asked his students what do you see. One disciple said flag is moving, the other said wind is blowing, an older student said mind is moving, Now the teacher intervened and said breath moved in. Breath acts as a physical and mental bridge connecting one’s body and mind. No meditation is worthy if the rate and length of breath does not change for you.

The teacher emphasized every breath ‘in’ is life and every ‘exhale’ is likely death, until the next breath moves in. Life is always the next breath away. It is important we understand the importance of each breath and consider what is that each breath makes you see, think and do. Today in our learnings we shall discuss one such human behavior likely to perish humanity and that is ‘breathing possessiveness’.  

Possessiveness is a complex psychological behavior that stems from a combination of deeper feelings and insecurities. It originates from internal states like fear of loss, jealousy, and low self-esteem.

Possessiveness expressions by people are wrongly understood as genuine love. An healthy emotional bond called love involves caring for the other and wanting the best for them. But when one is unable to tame desires, the fear of being left out, a past hurt or a general sense of insecurity makes one control others behaviour, decisions and interactions. This only creates an unhealthy suffocating dynamic that imbalances relationship.

A healthy relationship is built on trust, whereas possessiveness is a symptom of a lack of trust and a fear that the partner is influenced by others thus requiring constant reassurances. True love is described and flourishes when one is giving without expecting anything in return.

A mistaken belief that "I" and "mine" are the ultimate reality needs correction. A dip in scriptures advises one must exercise affectionate detachment, they also emphasise that material possessions and even our bodies, are temporary and that everything ultimately belongs to the creator. A wise person recognizes their role as a trustee, not an owner of the things in their life. 

Quoting Gurbani the teacher said “Without Him, I have no one to call my own. My soul and my breath of life belong to Him. May my egotism and possessiveness be burnt to ashes, and my greed and egotistical pride consigned to the fire. O Nanak, contemplating the Shabad, the Treasure of Excellence is obtained”. SGGS Ang59.

In conclusion the teacher advised his disciples let the creator be your ultimate source of security not objects or beings.

Live life - every breath in Shamma, Shukrana and Nadar, why breathe possessiveness.