If you read breathwork part 1, you now know how powerful using breathwork can be and the positive effects that it has. Let me give you some simple techniques to enhance your breathing game.
Practice deep breathing – Take slow, deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth, expanding your diaphragm and chest.
Practice diaphragmatic breathing – Place one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach. Inhale through your nose, feeling your stomach rise, and exhale through your mouth, feeling your stomach fall. You can also do this lying on the floor.
Use pursed-lip breathing – Inhale through your nose, and exhale slowly through pursed lips, as if you’re blowing out a candle.
Use alternate nostril breathing – Place your right thumb over your right nostril and inhale deeply through your left nostril. Close your left nostril with your right ring finger, and exhale slowly through your right nostril. Repeat on the other side.
Practice box breathing – Inhale for four counts, hold your breath for four counts, exhale for four counts, and hold your breath for four counts. Repeat several times.
Incorporate breathing exercises into your daily routine – Take a few deep breaths before getting out of bed in the morning, during your commute, or before going to sleep at night.
Use breathing to manage stress – Practice deep breathing exercises when you’re feeling stressed or anxious to help calm your mind and body.
Pay attention to your breathing patterns – Notice how you’re breathing throughout the day, and make an effort to breathe slowly and deeply when you’re feeling tense or overwhelmed. Controlling your breath is especially helpful during exercise.
Try different techniques for different situations. They’re simple but effective ways in which you can add conscious breathwork into your every day. Start small and then add more as it becomes routine.