Proper Breathing: Tapping into your "Grounding" Breath

As we continue to explore why more and more people are shallow breathing right now,
or breathing in that “fight or flight” mode – we want to discover the different types of breathing that will assist during your different emotional states throughout the day.  

We already know that improper breathing over time wreaks havoc on our health - both emotionally and physically. In my previous two posts I covered why breath work is so important and you were introduced to “Neutral Breathing.” 

Today we will cover the “GROUNDING BREATH”:  This breath is mainly used to help you fall asleep, OR get back to sleep.  Sometimes it might be needed during the day if someone has really “pushed all your buttons” and you can't talk yourself down, but please use it mindfully and sparingly in that case.

Basics to remember prior to doing any breathing exercises:

• Sit upright in a chair with your spine straight, OR lie down on a flat surface with your knees bent (or not if you're going to sleep for the night).
• Relax your body: Your shoulders, your jawline, your neck. 
• Place one or both hands on your lower belly. 
• Close your eyes.

HOW TO:

GROUNDING BREATH:  Breathe in through your nose and out through your nose.  Inhale to a count of four, but exhale to a count of eight.  After ten rounds your heart rate and blood pressure should drop as you stimulate your parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous system.

For all of you who are dealing with increased anxiety, insomnia, or just can't shut your brain off at night, I hope you'll give this a try and let me know how it goes!  I use this breath often when I wake up at night – it works!