One of the easiest yoga practices you can include in your life is breathing – the yogic way. Doing yoga breathing slows down your heartbeat and helps you relax.
Have you tried the simple practice of exhaling twice as long as inhaling? This means that you inhale for 2 counts and exhale for 4 counts. Or inhale for 3 counts and exhale for 6. You don’t have to roll out your yoga mat or strike a pose, you just breathe in and out to the rhythm.
Nobody will know that you are practicing yoga. You can do this breathing exercise everywhere.
- Getting anxious before a health checkup?
- Having a difficult discussion with your boss?
- Getting into an argument with your partner?
- The kids getting on your nerves?
- Just feeling unable to fall asleep?
Try breathing to calm you down. Let awareness enter your mind. Let creative possibilities appear of nowhere. Just breathe in and out for 2 and 4 or 3 and 6.
Did you know that exhaling is the key to your wellbeing? A full exhalation will calm you, energize you and it can even elevate your mood. Unfortunately in everyday life our exhalation is flat at best. It doesn’t last longer than the inhalation, ether. It is impossible to reap the benefits of breathing this way.
Counting while breathing will support you with breathing deep and slow. During this simple exercise you might feel that you count faster as you breathe out so at the end your exhalation is not as deep as you wished for. Music with a constant rhythm can help you with counting through the breathing.
Why is it important to exhale slow and steady? The more fully you exhale the more toxins you will eliminate. You give yourself more space to relax, letting go of things that no longer serve you. And the more fully your lungs are emptied, the more fresh air you will breathe in replenishing energy and inspiration.
Do you have difficulty focusing on your breath? Lie down and place a book (not too heavy!) on your belly for increased awareness! You can also try to put your hand on your belly and make the movement of breathing “visible” for you.
The beauty of this breathing exercise is that you don’t have to lie down and get into a pose to practice it. Sit up or stand straight, and begin counting…
As with any exercise, please stop immediately if you feel dizzy or lightheaded. Please consult your yoga instructor for advice. Please consult your doctor if symptoms persist.
At Clayton Yoga classes we place a huge emphasis of breathing right. Why don’t you stop by and get the support you need?
Have you seen our February special? You can have a look at our Hottest Deals here.
Our super secret Turtle promotion is still on for 10 days. Would you like to get the Turtle Code? Just sign up for our audio lesson – all about the benefits of yoga breathing – to the right on this webpage and we will send you the code in a follow-up email.
Just breathe!
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I love this breath exercise! It’s something we can practice anywhere, anytime and get in touch with our calmer,more peaceful selves.