It's been far too long since I've last posted to my blog. Like most people, I've been a bit overwhelmed by my To Do list lately. When we're stressed out, our breath is much more shallow. Breathing more deeply is calming, so I am sharing one of my favorite breathing techniques that I use to settle and re-center myself.
Find somewhere quiet to stand or sit for a few minutes. Your car works just fine if you're in the middle of a busy day. (I've done this standing in a Ladies Room stall!)Place one hand one your belly and one hand over your heart. Breathe in and out through your nose. Allow your belly to expand fully with each inhale. Count how long it takes you to inhale. See if you can balance your breath by matching the length of your inhale and exhale. (So if it takes you 5 counts to inhale, it should take you 5 counts to exhale as well.)
Once you've made your inhales and exhales even, begin to extend your exhales so that they last 2 counts longer than your inhale (For example: 5 counts to inhale and 7 counts to exhale). Extending your exhale has a calming effect on your body and mind. Concentrate on your breath for a few minutes, continuing to extend your exhale for 2 counts longer than your inhale. When you feel ready, go back to your day. Ideally, you can maintain that sense of calm and take it with you throughout the rest of the day.
This is also a great breathing technique to try if you're having trouble decompressing at the end of the day. Happy calm breathing!
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