Breath Work - The Elixir of Life
Would you believe me if I told you that can alter your state and change your brain chemistry in 60 to 120 seconds? Depending on the breath work practice, one to two minutes has the power to energize the body, aid in digestion, release stored tension, renew circulation in stagnant parts of the body as well as offer a sense of balance, grounding, calmness, focus and clarity.
The diaphragm moves all of the organs, not just the lungs and it can hold tension (related to stress/emotions) like any other muscle. It is connected through fascia and ligaments to the QL and psoas muscles. Those deep postural muscles affect how the whole spine sits.
It all starts in the center of the body.
BEGINNER BREATH WORK -New to breath work? This one is for you.
GROUNDING - Box Breath / Sama Vritti - This is such a powerful breath practice that it is taught in the police academy and the military. It relaxes the central nervous system, improves focus and concentration, and quiets the mind.
BALANCE - Alternate Nostril / Nadi Shodhana - This is one of my most favorite breath work practices. This breath work is about balancing the left and right hemispheres of the brain, the masculine & feminine, the yin & yang. It reduces stress and anxiousness, calms and rejuvenates the nervous system.
CALMING - Ocean Breath / Victorious Breath / UJJAYI - This breath work practice allows you to calm your mind by focusing and bringing all of your attention the breath.
*Avoid if pregnant and/or menstruating.
ENERGIZING / CLEANSING - Bellows Breath / Kapalbhati Breath - This breath practice is used to energize the body and clarify the mind.
*Avoid if pregnant &/or if you have heart problems.