When I run everyday, all the thoughts in my head run around with me. And I think about everything as I run. But sometimes, when I forget to think about breathing, and I get out of sync, or don’t breathe enough, I start to get a pain in my side.

Today I focused more on breathing and feeling the breath go in and out, as my legs took each step forward on the treadmill. I started to get into a good rhythm, not too fast, not too slow, just right. If you don’t breathe at all, and then have to catch up all at once, you can easily tire yourself out.

It’s important to remember to breathe, not only when you’re running, but in everything.

When I was getting my tattoo, my tattoo artist told me that I shouldn’t hold my breath, that I should breathe normally. I guess he’s had first timers who thought they shouldn’t breathe while getting a tattoo. The thought wouldn’t even have crossed my mind. Although if someone were anxious or nervous, sometimes the need to breathe might not be their first concern (though it really should be in such situations).

Remember to breathe. No matter what. Well, except if you’re underwater or in a situation where you do need to hold your breath. But you know what I mean. Breathe when it’s necessary, find your own rhythm, and go with it. Run with it. Climb mountains. Meditate. Enjoy life one second at a time.

And breathe.