Photo by Le Minh Phuong on Unsplash
What is diaphragmatic or belly breathing?
Belly breathing is a type of breathing that involves drawing the breath into the diaphragm – the large, dome-shaped muscle chiefly responsible for respiration. Diaphragmatic breathing is the basis for most breathwork practices; it simply involves taking deeper breaths that expand the belly.
Benefits of Diaphragmatic (Belly) Breathing:
This type of breathing is known for its stress-reducing effects and is why it’s employed in many meditation practices. It can help lower our heart rate and blood pressure, develop a stronger core, tolerate higher levels of exercise and other stressors, and help improve the efficiency of our metabolism. Belly breathing trains our nervous system to have better regulatory control.
Belly Breathing How To:
Sit or lie in a comfortable position
Keep good posture
Empty the lungs
Breathe in (deeply) through the nose allowing the breath to expand the belly
Breathe out through the nose as the belly gently contracts
Breathe like this for several minutes
Enjoy!
Notes:
Focus on the breath coming in and out through the nostrils and/or the rising and falling of the belly
Allow yourself to relax; don’t strain
Simply Be. Enjoy!
Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash
