breathe like a baby

Dear Listeners,

Every day we get a chance to begin again, try again with whatever we are working on or begin something new. Whether it’s when you rise for the day or take a shower, you have a chance to reset yourself to zero.

I like using the three part breath to regulate the mind, which calms the emotions and relaxes the body. If you think about it, it is a fundamental tool, a mechanism which supports our life force. It is no coincidence it’s focusing on an organ affected by this pandemic (the respiratory system).

Each week I base a recording on a pattern that catches my attention. This week seemed to focus of balance; in thought, emotions and body. I suggest doing this sitting and/or standing, noticing any difference and paying attention to the posture or how you stand on your own two feet. Consider practicing this lying down if you have significant physical impairments which make sitting up or standing challenging (the latter two lends alertness).

The three part breath is also known as dirga pranayama, a practice of yogic breathing. Most people are chest breathers with the chest popped out (don’t breath from their bellies… just like a baby!). Placing one hand on the belly and the other in the center of the chest (for sensory feedback) is a way to become aware of chest and belly movements. Try to do all breathing through the nose. If you become light headed, allow the breath to return to normal and resume when you are ready, next time shorten the practice. If it’s challenging to do step two or three, just practice step one till you get the hang of it and work your way up.

1. on the inhalation, the belly expands outward, on the exhalation, the belly draws in towards the spine

2. on the inhalation the belly expands, ribs expand, on the exhalation the ribs contract and belly draws in towards the spine

3. in the on the inhalation the belly expands, ribs expand collarbones rise, on the exhalation the collarbones fall, ribs contract and belly draws in towards the spine

This is helpful for anxiety, sleep issues and stress reduction.

I’d like to welcome our international listeners!

Please forward this recording to anyone you think may benefit, these are challenging times. Take care of yourself.