The Heart Breath
Dealing with health issues is no fun. That being said, I am blessed beyond belief to have good health insurance and a healthy skepticism of what doctors can and cannot do. I am also extremely grateful to have the support of my husband and the ability to create for myself a total healing program that includes: nutrition, bodywork, accupuncture, homeopathy, Yoga and meditation, and breathing.
Breathing? Yes, in fact, the Heart Breath has become one of my most powerful allies in calming my body and mind into a relaxed, healing-inducing state. This breath exercise is easy to use, can be done virtually anywhere, anytime, and is very effective. Give it a try and see how relaxing and centering it can be.
The Heart Breath
Begin by taking a deep breath. On the exhale, sigh, exhaling through the mouth. Release tension around the shoulders, neck, jaw, and belly.
Counting silently to yourself, slowly inhale, to the count of five. Exhale slowly, to the count of five. Repeat, breathing in for a count of five, exhaling out for a count of five. Continue as long as you like. Feel the waves of calm focus wash over you as the breath rises and falls.
To learn more about the benefits of a regular practice of deep breathing (Pranayama), a good place to start is here.
April 18th, 2008 at 9:38 am
How interesting, your timing. I am currently working with a doctor who has me working on my breathing. She says I am a shallow breather, which is true. And I also hold my breath. Like a child! The deep breaths she has me doing for homework (who knew someone needed to be taught to breathe!) are very powerful, for lack of a better word. In cases of extreme stress, when I can REMEMBER to breathe - let alone deeply - I found them, so far, to be very helpful in bringing me back down.
April 19th, 2008 at 10:30 am
I will try. I always forget to breathe (especially when i do yoga). Thanks for the exercise.
April 19th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
I like to pause for a moment between inhale & exhale. It adds that little extra bit of relaxation!!
I’m currently fighting with my health ins. company to cover the acupuncture that I had pre-approved with them for tendonitis. Then after it was done they denied the claim. This process requires a great deal of deep breathing.
April 20th, 2008 at 5:01 pm
thanks for the link. Cleared up some lymph questions……
So good to come here for such good info and insight. Forget sheep, I usually count my breath…
Doreen
April 21st, 2008 at 10:27 am
Breathing has helped me get through some stressful times. Looking forward to reading the info at the end of the link! Thanks!