When working out, we often get breathless, and tend to breathe from our mouth to makeup for the oxygen we are losing. But, while practising Bikram Yoga you aren’t supposed to breathe from your mouth. You are supposed to only breathe from your nose throughout the workout. Only in the beginning and end you use your mouth.
After doing bikram for months at end, I trained myself to not breath from my mouth when I’m in a posture. Other workouts, don’t work that way. So, my PT is constantly (for the past 3 years) reminding me to “keep breathing.” I’m still learning and reminding myself – don’t hold my breath.
In the world of metaphors (and over-thinkers), the term don’t hold my breath literally means to tell someone that an event isn’t going to happen.
In an endless loop, I had a realization (am I sitting by the window, talking in a Carrie Bradshaw voice? Possibly), that this meant more than just me trying to unlearn bikram yoga breathing. You see, I’m a dreamer, I am constantly scouting for hope and spend most of my optimistic self and time – holding my breath waiting for something that is likely to never happen.
I am not ashamed of hoping and looking for the rainbow, I would think of that as my virtue. I am always hopeful, but it’s my own expectations of everything else – not just necessarily me – that sets me up for disappointment. I wouldn’t want to settle for less than, but I shouldn’t be setting myself up for unnecessary breath holding and tension in my shoulders – and heart.
There is a need – nah, necessity – to constantly remind myself to breathe. To contain my expectations to myself – and to deliver on them, so I let go with a long exhale.
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Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame is probably the first thing that comes to your mind right? Well, at least that’s the case for me. But, the Notre Dame is more thanthat. Considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture, its one of the most popular Cathedrals in the world. It was built in 1345, yep- the 12th century. However, during the French Revolution, most of it’s religious imagery and artwork was damaged and destroyed. There have been several restorations processes since then. There is history and character in the Cathedral that can fascinate one endlessly. I’m a sucker for history- so a place like this would definitely grab my attention for longer than others.
Another fine example of French Gothic Architecture, the Sainte Chapelle was finished in the 11th century. Damaged during the French revolution, it was also restored in the 19th century. It is popular for the mesmerizing stained glass work windows. It is really close to the Notre Dame- so they can be visited one after the other.
Le Jardin du Luxembourg is much newer compared to the cathedrals. It was built in the 17th century. Pack a picnic basket with baguettes, fresh macaroons, croissants, fresh strawberries and some bubbles and plot yourself in the beautiful garden. While I would recommend definitely visiting it- especially after a day full of busy itinerary- you can sit back and relax here.
A super fancy name to a super fancy Parisian Opera theatre. It was finished in 1875, and got its name from its architect, Charles Garnier. Its popularity is hugely related to the fact that it was the backdrop for the plot of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’. You must tour the insides of the magnificent Opera house.
The river flows through the heart of Paris, and is one of the must dos when in Paris. The river cruises are usually an hour long. Many reviews suggest that you get some of the best picture of the Eiffel from the river. It takes you under beautiful bridges, much like 
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