You are in charge of your own evolution. Mindful breathing practice moves your mind, body and spirit in an exciting direction so I would hope you would practice regularly the rest of your life. Without regular practice students often forget their breathing until they are neck deep in a personal or professional crisis. Only then, in desperation, do they try to summon a breathing exercise that they remember reading about, but never truly made their own. Learn to swim before you fall (or are pushed) into deep water.
How do I know if I’m advancing?
Don’t think about it. You aren’t being graded here. Tiger cubs, practicing their survival skills through play focus on what they are doing. Most of our greatest accomplishments have come through a sense of wonder and playfulness. So long as you are focused and are not in any way uncomfortable, then you are advancing.
Be well. Breathe beautifully.