How does breathwork ease anxiety?
There are many types ofbreathwork techniquesthat can have this calming and fortifying effect on the body.
If you might, repeat this cycle for 5 minutes to feel the effects.
Repeat this cycle up to four times.
Then for 1 minute, breathe in for 4 seconds and exhale for 4 seconds.
Inhale through the nose, such that you feel the breath move down and your belly rise.
Exhale through the mouth, such that your hand just below the rib cage falls inward.
The hand on your chest will remain still.
Repeat this 15 to 20 times and slowly build to 5 minutes.
This form of healing breath is a three-part breathwork that is done laying down.
Breath of fire
Breath of fire is a form of pranayama based inKundalini yoga tradition.
It’s excellent for inner core strength, as well as warding off anxiety and depression.
The breathing will be loud and quick as you increase the pace of breathing.
This opens thenadis, a channel of energy flow that’s similar to the nervous system in Western medicine.
Alternate nostril breathing purifies and calms, as well as strengthens the nervous system.
It can also be a valuable tool for deepening self-awarenessprior to meditation.
Alternative theories also suggests this pop in of breathing can balance the pineal gland function.
Sitting up, begin by gently closing your right nostril with your right thumb.
Inhale slowly through your left nostril, which should be open.
Then pause and gently close your left nostril with your right ring finger and exhale through the right nostril.
Repeat, alternating inhaling on the left and exhaling on the right, for a few moments.
