Breathing Techniques: ....for when tension arises, and thoughts clutter the mind...
These breathing techniques are a great way to explore different ways to find relaxation and focus. Feel free to try them all. Find the style of breath that you find the most helpful to find relaxation.
It is said that the breath is the source of control within the body. When you can control the breath, you can control the mind. Although, when suffering from anxiety, there is the tendency to focus TOO much on the breath, and forget to relax. This could lead into trying to control the breath to the point which may lead some to find tension rather than relaxation. So, never try to force the breath. Just use these techniques with your normal breathing pattern for the best results.
Remember WE ARE ALL DIFFERENT.. and none of these are right or wrong. YOU have a choice according to what YOUR own body needs. Its right when it FEELS right, and the goal is to feel relaxed.
These styles may take some time to get used to, so try your favorite on a daily basis, and focus on the relaxation you end up with. Notice that the more you work at them, the easier and quicker relaxation will come.
As always..MIND YOUR BODY!! If at any time, you start to feel dizzy, you need to stop. These breathing techniques are to aide in feeling relaxation, so always be mindful how you are feeling at all times. Just use your NORMAL BREATHING PATTERN., and try not to force the breath..
Alternate Nostril Breathing (2 min.) **Great for all! For relaxation, lengthen the breath and relax...
Like most of these breathing techniques, Alternate Nostril Breathing helps you center the mind and aid in relaxation. The best component of this type of breath is the ability to synchronize the left and right hemispheres of the brain, bringing balance, for clearer thinking and overall brain function. It also can help clear the nasal cavities while strengthening the lungs and diaphragm.
Breathe to Relax... Exhale longer than the inhale (2 min) **Great for all! Inhale and exhale slowly and steadily..
The process of exhaling longer than the inhale taps into the parasympathetic nervous system that allows for relaxation. This breath is a great tool to use when you start to feel tension building in the body. Close your eyes and focus on sections of your body that feel the tension, then inhale in to a three count. As you exhale, lengthen out the exhale to a six count, keeping the breath slow and steady. Notice the wave of relaxation that will come over your body.
Belly Breath Relaxation (5 min.) **Great for all! Inhale and exhale slowly and steadily...
This three part breath helps strengthen the diaphragm and aids in greater lung capacity. It is a great tool to cleanse and expel toxins from the body. When the breath is focused upon, it can aide in relaxation. Just be careful not to focus on the breath too much. Be sure to always release tension. If you find you are feeling tension, back off a bit to not control the breath too much. Allow your natural flow of breath.