Belly Breathing

Belly breathing is not so much a a technique as it's our naturally intended way to breathe. How are you breathing right now?

If you're relaxed, then you might be belly breathing. Proper breathing uses your diaphragm (the sheet of muscle under your lungs) and your chest muscles. Breathing in this way slows down the rate of breath, the heart rate, and allows the body to take in more oxygen. It also helps expel more thoroughly gases like carbon monoxide. Breathing this way gives our internal organs the added benefit of an internal massage.

If you're even a little tense, chances are that you are holding tension in your stomach area and using only your chest muscles to breathe. This restricts your diaphragm from fully expanding, reducing oxygen intake, lowering energy levels.

To breathe in this way make sure you are wearing lose fitting, comfortable clothing. Take off any uncomfortable jewelry, like watches, rings, etc.

Let's begin:

Sit or lie comfortably with your back straight.

Put your hands on your lower belly.

Relax your stomach muscles.

Take a slow, deep breath through your nose.

Feel your lower abdomen expand as you inhale. Your hands should rise with the breath.

Breath out through your mouth. Your exhalation should take about twice as long as your inhalation.

Your hands should fall as you exhale.

Don't over think it. If you begin to feel dizzy, stop until you feel better. Remember, this is supposed to help you relax. In fact, you should attempt to focus on your breath. It often helps to count your breaths. For example: breathe in, then out (that's a one-count). Do this until you reach a four-count (that's 1, in & out, 2, in & out, 3, in & out, 4, in & out) and then start again at one. Anytime you find yourself at five or above, gently direct your mind back to your breath-count. Don' stress it.

Before long you will be able to do this exercise for about 20 minutes. After I do this exercise I can usually remain relaxed for most of the day. It feels wonderful.

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