Belly Breathing

Belly breathing, also known as diaphragmatic breathing, is a type of breathing that involves using the diaphragm muscle to inhale and exhale. This type of breathing is often recommended for stress management and relaxation, as it can help to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety. It is also beneficial for those with respiratory issues, as it can help to improve lung function and increase oxygen flow to the body.

One important aspect of belly breathing is to focus on the breath itself. Pay attention to the sensation of the air moving in and out of your body, and try to keep your mind present with the breath. If your mind starts to wander, gently bring it back to the breath. This mindfulness aspect of belly breathing can help to calm the mind and promote relaxation.

Incorporating belly breathing into your daily routine can have numerous benefits. In addition to reducing stress and anxiety, it can also help to improve sleep, increase energy levels, and boost overall well-being. It can even have physical benefits, such as improving digestion and reducing pain.

If you're new to belly breathing, it may take some time to get used to. Start by practicing for a few minutes at a time and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable. It can also be helpful to set aside a specific time of day to practice belly breathing, such as first thing in the morning or before bed. With a little bit of practice, belly breathing can become a powerful tool for managing stress and promoting relaxation in your daily life.

The method

Sit up as straight as you can but without bringing any unnecessary tension into your body. You can lean on a wall if this is helpful or sit in a char with a back and your feet flat on the floor.

Relax your face, unclench your jaw if it’s tight and bring one hand to your belly and one to your chest. Now, breathing in through the nose and out through the nose, consciously try and direct the breath into the belly. Do this for 3 - 5 minutes once a day to start.