It is such a simple concept.
I am learning that deep, purposeful breathing can be a wonderful way to help our minds and bodies find a sense of calm.
An article that I recently read reiterated (try saying that several times in a row!) the idea of deep breathing and how beneficial it can be. How to do it correctly is listed in these steps by Dr. Andrew Weil, best selling author and clinical professor of medicine at the U. of Arizona:
Sit with the back straight.
Place the tip of your tongue against the ridge just behind your front teeth.
Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whooshing sound.
Inhale quietly through your nose with your mouth closed to a mental count of four. Hold your breath for a count of seven.
Exhale completely through your mouth, this time whooshing (brilliant medical term!) to the count of eight.
Inhale again and repeat the exercise three times for a total of four breaths.
You don't want to do this breathing technique too much at first in that you may get a feeling of light-headedness...but, with practice, this too shall pass.
Stressed out?...deep breath
$11,500 bid for a new roof? ...deep breath
plastic cups down the toilet?....deep breath
neighbor's dogs barking at 5:30 a.m.?.....deep breath
Red wine spilled on your white couch?...deep breath...etc. etc.
Relax and give yourself some breathing space today.
Ahhhhhhhhhh
I promise you that it works...
xoxo
Dr. Grammie, your breathing guru : )
3 comments:
grammie....I just tried the breathing thing and the nose that came out of my mouth was indeed something else....it's a good thing I was alone in the room......but you are right....deep breathing is always good.....love you....always abby
It's not really the breathing; it's the focusing of the mind, training it to ignore reality, at least enough to find that silver lining. Silver linings are always easier to think about.
This is like meditation...focus on the breathing. Good advice. Thanks.
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