Walk, Run, and Climb the Stairs the Yoga Way!

By Claire Diab and Dennis Boyle

We all walk, sometimes we run, and we all climb stairs. Whether we climb a few stairs to get into someone’s house or up to the second or third floor or down to the basement, we are surrounded by stairs.

Firefighters climb stairs with a purpose: to stop the fire, to save a life, to prevent the house or building from burning down. You are climbing the stairs with 90-plus pounds of gear on. Your heart is beating faster, your blood is flowing, your adrenaline is high. You can conserve your energy and have more endurance with Rhythmic Breathing.

Rhythmic Breathing incorporated into walking, running, or climbing the stairs will allow you to go much farther than you ever thought possible, and you will not be winded or out of breath when you reach your final destination. It is best to learn Rhythmic Breathing when you are relaxed and have time to focus on coordinating your breath with the movement.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Start while standing in place.

Take two breaths in through your nostrils and then exhale two breaths out through your nostrils (keep your jaw relaxed).

Next, begin to walk and match each step with a breath: Inhale … Inhale … Exhale … Exhale … is four steps.

Continue walking, matching each step with a breath.

Now do the same Rhythmic Breathing while you climb stairs and if you are running. Notice how you feel when you arrive at your destination. You will be able to climb 30 (and more) flights of stairs feeling energized, strong, and healthy at the top! Go ahead; just do it and see for yourself. It is truly amazing! Enjoy!

BIOS

Claire Diab is an internationally recognized Yoga therapist. She is the director of the Yoga Program for the Chopra Center founded by Dr. Deepak Chopra and Dr. David Simon. She is an adjunct professor of Asian Studies at Seton Hall University. She is the author of several books and DVDs on Yoga including “Yoga For Firefighters.”

Dennis Boyle is a retired fire director and acting chief with the West Orange (NJ) Fire Department. He was the recipient of the 1999 New Jersey Deputy Fire Chiefs “Fire Officer of the Year” award.

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