Breathing is something we all need to do a little more of these days. And what we now know through recent research is that how we breathe has a direct effect not only how we process and release stress but also on the overall quality of our physical health. Last week, we focused on breath for moving emotions and stress through our bodies. We practiced two of my favorite breathing techniques, nadi shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) and sama vritti (box breathing). I find these both super effective in bringing both a sense of equanimity of mind and restoring the parasympathetic nervous system.
In the book, 'Breath, The New Science Of A Lost Art' the author James Nestor lays out incredible evidence for the diaphragmic breathing we practice in yoga, meditation and pranayama. He interviews people who have not only healed themselves of grave illnesses but also achieved incredible physical feats. Based on the research and recommendations have been training myself to practice nasal breathing while running and also when I sleep (in addition of course to when I practice yoga).
Amy Owen
Yoga Instructor + Birth Coach
