Calming Breathing



Calming breathing relieves mind-chatter

Calming breathing is a technique that we find gives 2 major benefits, especially when the mind is refusing to relax or be at peace.
  1. It is the most effective way to still the mind.
  2. It will help you focus on a positive and beneficial activity - breathing.
The calming breathing technique involves measuring your breathing by counting, we suggest starting with a count to 4 but you will soon discover if a different number works better for you.

There is absolutely no advantage in stressing yourself by trying to do it longer, harder, better etc. If at any stage you feel you are needing to breathe then do so and change your count to match whatever period you find comfortable.

  1. Begin by emptying your lungs - until they are comfortably empty.
  2. Inhale slowly and steadily through your nose while counting to your number.
  3. Hold your breath (with comfortably full lungs) for another count.
  4. Slowly exhale through your mouth while counting to your number.
  5. When your lungs are comfortably empty, hold your breath for the same count,
  6. Repeat steps 2 to 5
  7. Continue for as long as you like and notice the peace of a still mind, it is OK to fall asleep.
  8. DO NOT try this when driving, operating machinery or making love.
For more ways to help you regain your peace of mind see our Meditation & Beyond and Dealing with Depression Naturally pages.



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