2 reasons why you should practice breath work!
Breath work has been a game changer for me in terms of healing from asthma and improving my overall health. Not only have my asthma symptoms greatly reduced, but my focus and concentration have also significantly improved, which has been a major benefit as I have a history of ADHD. These techniques have given me the tools to better control my breathing and manage my symptoms, leading to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
It is a simple yet powerful tool that has had a profound impact on my relationships as well. By paying attention to my breath I am able to improve my connection with the person across me.
Breath work helps to …
1: Boost Heart Rate Variability (HRV)
Breath work, also known as pranayama in yoga, is a practice that involves conscious control of the breath. It has been shown to have numerous benefits for both physical and mental health, including reducing stress, improving sleep, and increasing heart rate variability (HRV).
HRV is a measure of the variation in the time interval between heartbeats. It is an important indicator of overall health and well-being, with higher HRV being associated with better physical and mental health.
There are many different breath work techniques that can be used to boost HRV, including the following:
Alternate Nostril Breathing: This is a simple breath work technique that involves alternating the nostril through which you breathe. To practice alternate nostril breathing, close one nostril and inhale through the other. Then, close the opposite nostril and exhale through the open nostril. Continue to alternate nostrils with each breath.
Diaphragmatic Breathing: This involves focusing on the breath and taking deep, slow breaths from the belly rather than the chest. To practice diaphragmatic breathing, lie on your back or sit in a comfortable position with your hand on your belly. Inhale deeply and feel your belly rise as you fill your lungs with air. Exhale slowly, feeling your belly fall as you empty your lungs.
4-7-8 Breath: This technique involves counting to four as you inhale, holding your breath for a count of seven, and then exhaling for a count of eight. This breath work practice can be especially helpful for reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
2: Improve your relationships
One way that breath awareness can improve communication is by helping you to slow down and become more present. When you're present, you're able to listen more attentively and respond more thoughtfully. This can help to reduce misunderstandings and improve the overall quality of our interactions.
Breath awareness can also increase intimacy in your relationships. When you're able to focus on your breath , you relax and let go of tension and stress, you're more open and receptive to connection.
Finally, breath awareness can be a helpful tool in reducing conflict in our relationships. When we're feeling overwhelmed or upset, it's easy to react in ways that are hurtful or unproductive. By just pausing for a moment, taking 3 nasal diaphragmatic breaths be for reacting, you can approach conflicts with a clearer head and a more open and compassionate attitude.
And when you are speaking to someone, try and get in sync with their breathing by looking at the rise and fall of their upper chest. Mtch their breath rate while paying attention to the words they say. By doing so, you’ll develop better rapport with them!
To get the most benefit from breath work, it is important to practice regularly and pay attention to the breath. Start by incorporating a few minutes of any of the above exercises into your daily routine and gradually increase the length of your practice as you become more comfortable. As you become more proficient, you can try different techniques and find the ones that work best for you.
Access freedom through your breath!
Cheers,
Luke