How to Low Breathe

The low breathe is the most cleansing and relaxing breath in yoga and in life. Like the name implies, low breathing comes from low within the body, and can also be called abdominal breathing. Low breathing occurs naturally when we are most relaxed or sleeping, but with practice you can incorporate it into your everyday activities and reap the benefits.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Take some breaths in and out. During this time, take note of what parts of your body are moving. Are your shoulders moving? Is your chest heaving? Is your belly going up and down? In low breathing, you want you chest and shoulder to remain as still as possible, but your abdominal area should be raising and lowering.
2. Now that you know how you're breathing, breathe in deeply. You stomach area should swell with air. Only inhale as much as is comfortable, and do not strain.
3. As you exhale, your stomach should go back to normal. Think of your belly button going straight back toward your spine.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice low breathing during stressful situations to help calm your body.
• Practice when you have time to really think about your breathing. The more you practice, the more automatic it will become.