Benefits
This is the most fundamental breath we can learn, or rather re-learn. Infants naturally breath in this way. Watch a baby as they inhale, you will notice their entire bellies and backs fill with breath. Many of us do this intuitively as we sigh. However, many of us unknowingly avoid this type of breathing because of high stress lifestyles we often create as adults.
Belly breathing is also referred to as diaphragmatic breath. Breathing in this way fills the diaphragm with breath, creating a sense of calm and relaxation. Practicing this breath even for a few minutes can melt away stress, anger and anxiety.
This breath can be practiced standing, seated or laying flat on your back.
Practice (60 seconds)
To begin, if you’d like, place one hand on the belly and one hand on the heart. As you inhale, notice your belly expand. Exhale, even slower, and watch the belly deflate.
Inhale, feel the belly expand,
Exhale, notice a sense of calm and quiet in the mind and the body.
Inhale, watch the belly expand.
Exhale slowly, notice the belly deflate.
Inhale, feel the belly expand,
Exhale, notice a sense of a calm.
Inhale, notice the belly expand,
Exhale all the way to empty and notice a sense of a calm.
Continue this for as many breaths as it takes to feel a sense of calm.