Let's Breathe

The breath is the ultimate tool to keep us in the here and now. It is always with us, happening in real time, often revealing our emotions and true state of mind. The breath is so powerful that we can use this tool to shift our energy, balance our mind, and keep us actively engaged with the world around us. Here are a few breathing practices to try on your own!

Left Nostril Breathing: Cover the right nostril and breathe deeply for 25-30 full breaths.

* Helps calm the mind and reduce anxiety.

Right Nostril Breathing: Cover the left nostril and breathe deeply for 25-30 full breaths.

*Helps energize, revitalize, and increase focus.

Breath for Energy: Inhale in four small strokes (sniffs), then exhale in the same manner. Repeat this for 20 or so breaths then sit quietly and let the breath return to its natural state.

*Helps wake up the mind & body (great morning practice)

Breath for Relaxation: Inhale through the nose, filling up the lungs & belly, then midchest, then upper chest in a smooth slow sequence. Exhale through the nose, releasing the body in the reverse direction. Repeat for 20 breaths or so.

*Helps to relax the mind & body (great evening practice)

-Jackie Spencer