Breathing exercises for zen-like calm

Deesha Bondre | Jun 28, 2019, 16:55 IST
The way in which a person breathes is often linked to other major body functions. Which is why meditation and breathing exercise receive the importance that they do. Don’t believe us? Just notice the difference in your breathing when you’re happy, sad, angry or worried. Our breathing pattern changes with a change in the mood. With the same logic, it is possible to control your mood if you control the way you breathe. Meditators around the world learn to breathe in a rhythmic way to relax them. If you are in search of that zen-like calm, ahead are few exercises that will help you out!
Belly Breathing Exercise
Begin with something easy and effective. You can try the belly breathing exercise anytime you need to relieve stress.
Follow these steps to do this exercise:
Sit or lie down in a comfortable posture.
Put one hand on your chest and the other hand on your upper belly just below your ribs.
Inhale deeply through your nose as if your hand is pushing the belly out. However, make sure that your chest doesn’t move.
Exhale calmly through pursed lips as if you are whistling. Feel the hand on your belly sink deeper and use it to rush the air out slowly.
You can do this exercise 3 to 7 times continuously anytime and anywhere.
Morning Breathing Exercise
Morning Breathing Exercise is yet again an effective way to relieve tension and feel relaxed instantly. It will also help to get instant relief from muscle stiffness and tension. The best way to practice it is as follows:
Stand tall and bend forward slowly from the waist with your knees bent slightly. Your arms must be suspended close to the floor.
Inhale deeply and return to the normal standing position. Lift your head at last.
The, exhale calmly and return to the original position, bending from the waist.
You will start feeling a lot better after practicing this exercise for 5 to 10 times.
Alternate Nostril Breathing
This is traditionally known as Anulom Vilom Prayanam, Alternate Nostril Breathing is the most practiced breathing exercise in the country and worldwide. This breathing technique not only keeps you active and fresh but also prevents you from many diseases. The best way to practice this breathing exercise is as follows:
Sit in a comfortable position.
Press the right nostril with the right thumb and inhale completely from the left nose.
Then, press the left nostril with the ring finger of the right hand and exhale from the right nose.
Hold the same position, and again inhale from the right nose, press it with the right thumb, and exhale from the left nose
Repeat the process for 25 to 50 times, and feel the positive change in you within a month.

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