Three Simple Breathing Techniques for Everyday Life | Adventure Yogi

Do we undervalue the power of the breath?

LIFE! WHAT A WONDERFUL GIFT IT IS! Sometimes though it can be tough and leave us feeling exhausted and a little overwhelmed by it all. In yoga we use pranayama as a way to create a blissful sense of calm through the body and mind. Some of those techniques are as effective as they are simple and can be done anywhere and at any time. Here are our top three simple breathing techniques and tips to bring back the bliss.

Simple Breathing Techniques

Keep Count

As much of meditation as it is a breathing technique, simple counting can work miracles to help reduce day to day anxiety. Start by allowing for a few long, soft breaths making sure the exhale is allowed to freely leave. Once you have settled into this pace start to introduce your count but without forcing the breath to change too much. To start, just notice the natural rhythm of that breath counting the seconds of each inhale and then each exhale. Then, see if you can begin to allow the exhale to last just a second longer than the inhale. Allow for that little bit of extra time on your exhale to relax your neck, un-clench your jaw and soften your shoulders. Continue to breathe and count for as long as you wish or need to.

Use A Mantra in Your Breathing Techniques

Mantra can be a powerful tool in our daily lives. Think of it as a positive affirmation to keep your headspace a little clearer from doubting thoughts with this breathing technique. The beauty of it is it can be whatever you need it to be! If you are having a stressful day as you breathe in think or mentally repeat the words ‘I notice this feeling’. As you breathe out think, ‘I let this tension go’ or ‘I allow this stress to leave’. If you have a big interview or presentation ahead of you try ‘ I am capable and prepared’ as you breathe in and ‘I am relaxed and ready’ as you breathe out. Your mantra is yours to create, yours to make and yours to repeat as often as you wish.

Feel It

Humans are sensory creatures and our modern world fills our senses constantly. Try creating a more sensory breathing technique to experience and connect more by using touch. Start by making sure you a comfortable where ever you are. It doesn’t matter if you are sat in a chair at work, stood in a cue or laying down on your yoga mat, get comfy. Placing one hand on your chest and one hand on your belly allow the breath to naturally flow and take a moment to notice how that feels, not just in your body but also underneath the touch of your hands.  In time, allow for the breath to find a gentler pace focusing more on the sensation underneath your palms. Notice the soft lifting and sinking of your chest and belly as you breathe. Lovely.

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