Breathing exercises to experience the bliss

Posted on by Dad with purpose

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Breathing lets you live. Without the breath, nothing will exist. We take breathing for granted and don’t pay enough attention to its potential powers. Breathing intentionally takes you back from the past/future and brings you to the present moment. The good news is, it is completely free and the side effect is life. As well as taking tea or coffee breaks, you should also take breaks to breathe. Here are 5 breathing exercises you should try …

Please note that all the below breathing exercises should be done, when it is safe to do so. If you are suffering from any hypertension or any cardiovascular disease please seek medical advice before trying these exercises.

5 Breathing Exercises to Improve Your immune System and Energy

Wim Hof Method

With this breathing technique, you can awaken your inner power to be happier, stronger, and healthier. Wim Hof method can help to;

  • Reduce stress
  • Sleep better
  • Recovery faster from physical exertion
  • It claims to improve the immune system.
  • You can practice Wim Hof as often as you would like in a day.

You can also check the book “The Wim Hof Method” and find out how cold exposure and breathing can help your immune system and longevity.

How to do Wim Hof Breathing?

Wim Hof guided breathing

4-7-8 Breathing

This breathing pattern can help with anxiety and going to sleep easily. With 4-7-8 breathing, you will need to focus on taking deep breaths for 4 seconds, hold the breath for 7 seconds, and release your breath for 8 seconds. Repeat this cycle four times. Also, you can reduce the ratio 2-3-5-4 if you are struggling with the 4-7-8 ratio.

This breathing technique is ideal before bed and should not be done frequently.

How to do 4-7-8?

Bellows Breath

  • It will make you feel energised.
  • It will increase alertness and clarifies the mind.
  • Try bellows breath whenever you feel drained and lack of energy.
  • It is done by inhaling and exhaling rapidly.
  • Note – Do not practice Bellows breath if you are pregnant, have uncontrolled hypertension, epilepsy, seizures, or panic disorder. Due to the pumping action of the breath, you should avoid practicing Bellows Breath on a full stomach – wait at least two hours after eating.

How to do the bellows breath?

Diaphragmatic Breathing

  • Reduce stress
  • Helps with the immune system
  • Reduce the chance of getting muscle injury
  • Lower blood pressure and heart rate

How to do diaphragmatic breathing?

Nadi Shodhana

This breathing technique is also known as alternate nostril breathing. This is a very simple breathing technique that comes with a lot of benefits.

  • Improve mental abilities
  • Improve energy levels
  • Helps with sleep