by Bellezza Squillace, GATE Executive Director 07.14.2008
We all get stressed, these days even more. Ever present electrical currents from TV, computer, cell phones, ambient wifi and other sources adds to anxiety. Enjoying time in Nature helps. But sometimes we need to destress right now! Deep breathing helps us refocus and reconnect to what is important in this moment. Here are a few techniques.
Belly Breathing
Place one hand on abdomen below belly button. Inhale slowly and deeply, feel diaphragm expand lifting your belly hand. Hold full lungs for a few seconds before exhaling. Exhale while feeling your belly hand descend.
Flowing Breath
Do the above while having other hand on chest. Feel your heart rate and notice any changes as you breathe. Concentrate on having your breath fill your lungs and abdomen. Slowly exhale while concentrating on the flow of air in and out. Concentrate on the conversion of oxygen on the cellular level and its flow through your body.
4 Count Breath
Inhale deeply, while slowly counting to 4.
Hold for 4 count. Exhale while counting to 4.
Hold for 4 count. Repeat.
Guardians Around The Earth 