This technique is designed to synchronise heart rate and even blood flow, with respiration. The optimum number of breaths to improve heart rate variability and bring bodily systems into symbiosis is six breaths/min. When we practise this breath, we allow our bodily systems to cooperate, which brings about emotional and physiological coherence.

Our natural tendency is to breathe at a rate of two to three seconds per inhale and exhale, which is sufficient for a modern lifestyle, but if we’re trying to actively change body chemistry and how the body functions holistically, we need to extend the length of our breath to five or even six seconds per inhale and exhale.

Health and safety

Always prioritise safety when practicing breathwork. Always practice seated or lying down and get permission from a doctor before taking up a regular breathwork practice. This is especially relevant if there are any issues with high or low blood pressure, asthma or if there are severe mental health concerns to take into consideration.

The method

Take a seat with your spine straight. If you’re not comfortable on the floor on a cushion you can sit in a chair with a back and your feet flat on the floor.

Inhale through the nose into the belly and feel it expand for a count of five. Now exhale through pursed lips, like you’re blowing out birthday candles for a count of five. Inhale through the mouth like you’re drinking through a straw for a count of five and then exhale through the nose for a count of five. Do this six times and you’ve achieved your goal of six breaths per minute. Practice this for ten minutes each day in the morning or just before bed for optimal results.

You can watch the below video and breathe along to find your rhythm and pace.