4 ways you can notice your breath
Have you ever been filled with anxiety, felt overwhelmed or like you’re about to pass out only to notice that you’re holding your breath? Or maybe you are noticing that you are holding your breath right now?
When we hold our breath we are actually communicating to our brains that we are in danger and we turn on our fight or flight response. Creating moments in our routines to notice your breath is a great first step in combating stress and anxiety.
Below are some practical ways you can try noticing your breath. Consider what might work for you:
rhythm. finding ways to bring breathing into your everyday moments. take a moment to think about the things you do everyday. is there an activity you participate in that you could add breathing to? for example cooking, brushing your teeth, driving, sitting and standing.
restorative yoga. there are a surprising number of quality yoga practices that you can follow youtube. Yin Yoga or restorative yoga are amazing practices you can participate in that allow for slower moments and time to focus in on your breath, my personal favorite is Yoga with Adrian.
running. for people who enjoy high intensity work out activities, running, or walking even, can be amazing moments to focus on your breath and allow your mind to wander.
rest. laying flat on your back or sitting in a chair with your hand on your diaphragm will help you notice your breath and inhale deeply to gain a full belly breath.