Welcome to Believe Big, where faith meets healing on the journey through cancer. We’re here to guide you in prayer, faith, and strength as you navigate the challenges of illness and recovery. Let’s walk through the transformative practice of breath prayer together.

In both moments of turmoil and moments of triumph, prayer is our lifeline to God. Just as prayer was essential to Jesus during His earthly ministry, it remains a cornerstone of our relationship with the Father. Breath prayer, a spiritual practice we embrace, offers a simple yet profound way to calm our spirits and draw us closer to God.

Amid our hectic lives, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and spiritually empty. Breath prayer offers a beacon of hope, a way to anchor ourselves in faith and find joy in the everyday.

But what exactly is breath prayer?
A breath prayer is a concise expression of praise or petition that we silently recite while breathing deeply. For some, it may seem unfamiliar, but for others, it emerged organically, perhaps during a daily run or a quiet moment of reflection.

Here’s a simple example:
Inhale — “The Lord is…”
Exhale — “…my strength and song.”
(Psalm 118:14)

These prayers, often just a handful of words, effortlessly blend the spiritual act of prayer with the physical act of breathing, fostering a profound connection with Jesus.

The origins of breath prayer lie firmly within the Christian tradition. Moreover, modern science affirms its benefits, showing how deep breathing can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and promote overall well-being. What a divine gift it is to unite our prayers with our breath, offering our hearts and minds to God in every moment!

So, how do we practice breath prayer?
First, find a quiet space—whether it’s in your car, during a walk-in nature, or simply in the stillness of your home.

Next, choose a simple phrase to pray. It could be a Scripture verse or even a hymn lyric.

Then, as you breathe deeply, silently pray the first half of your chosen phrase on the inhale, and the second half on the exhale. Stay present in the moment, allowing the rhythm of your breath to guide you closer to God.

Here are a few examples to inspire you:
“Jesus, help me.”
“Lord God, be near.”
“Holy Spirit, guide me.”
“Jesus, You are my peace.”
“Give me today, my daily bread.”
“I will sing to You, as long as I live.”
“Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
“Not my will, but Yours be done.”

These prayers, brief yet profound, center us in the presence of God, reminding us of His love, His guidance, and His peace. As you embark on your breath prayer journey, may you experience the depth of God’s grace and the power of prayer in every breath. Share your breath prayers online and tag us!

Embrace the Chill: Surprising Benefits of Being Outside in the Cold

Boosted Metabolism: Cold temperatures can stimulate metabolically active brown fat, which burns calories to generate heat. Studies have shown that exposure to moderately cool temperatures can activate brown fat cells, potentially aiding in weight management.

Enhanced Blood Circulation: When exposed to cold air, blood vessels in the skin constrict, shunting blood to the interior to maintain core body temperature. This process helps in preserving heat and protecting vital organs. Over time, exposure to cold can train blood vessels to be more responsive, contributing to overall vascular health.

Increased Norepinephrine Levels: Cold exposure triggers a spike in norepinephrine levels, a chemical in the nervous system that may play a role in pain suppression. This natural response could explain the reported benefits of cold-water immersion and whole-body cryotherapy in reducing inflammation and managing pain.

Rosy Cheeks and Healthier Skin: Moderate exposure to cold weather can result in rosy cheeks, indicating improved blood circulation and oxygenation of the skin. Additionally, cold air can have a tightening effect on pores, potentially reducing acne and promoting healthier-looking skin.

Stress Reduction: Despite the initial discomfort, the body’s response to cold, such as shivering and increased heart rate, can trigger the release of endorphins, leading to feelings of relaxation and euphoria. Outdoor activities in cold weather, like winter swimming or hiking, can also serve as effective stress relievers.

Immune System Activation: Cold exposure has been linked to temporary immune system activation, which may help in fighting off infections. While prolonged exposure to extreme cold can suppress the immune system, moderate cold exposure could potentially strengthen it by activating certain immune responses.

Mental Health Benefits: Spending time outdoors in the cold can improve mental well-being by promoting mindfulness and connection with nature. The crisp air and serene winter landscapes can have a calming effect, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Enhanced Respiratory Function: Breathing in cold air can stimulate the respiratory system, increasing lung capacity and improving overall respiratory function. Cold air can also help in clearing nasal passages, potentially reducing congestion and alleviating symptoms of respiratory conditions.

Embracing the cold and incorporating outdoor activities into your winter routine can offer a myriad of health benefits, from increased metabolism and circulation to improved mental and respiratory health. So, bundle up, step outside, and let the chill work its magic on your body and mind.

Homeopathy is a system of therapeutics that was developed at the end of the 17th century by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician. Homeopathy is the process of using extremely minute diluted amounts of plants and minerals that can help the body repair itself by promoting healing. Ivelisse has been using homeopathy for over 29 years and is an important aspect of her healthcare regimen and that of her family.

The quality of every product used is vital and why we recommend the products from Uriel Pharmacy (Believe Big receives no royalties for referring). Why? They obtain the majority of their materials from biodynamic, organic, and sustainable sources and try their best to source from local growers around the country.

Here are some of our favorite products:

A. Calendula Gel – A go-to homeopathic remedy for aiding in the repair of cut, grazed, or wounded skin. Can be used to offset the itchiness a mistletoe shot may cause. Ordering Link

B. Solum Aesculus Massage & Body Oil – Embodying the protecting powers of peat and the strengthening and calming powers of St. John’s Wort, this oil helps fight against environmental or empathetic fatigue and encourages emotional strength. Ordering Link

C. Aurum Lavender Rose Cream – For temporary relief and protection from stress and tension, rub over the heart area every morning and evening or as needed. Ordering Link.

D. Arnica Gel – For the relief of bruises, sprains, swelling, and more, due to overexertion/minor sports injuries. Ordering Link

E. Flu Care Full Size Kit – The best flu remedies in one convenient bundle. Ordering Link