The mental well-being of an individual is often disregarded in most stages of life. Due to the ignorance and stigma revolved around mental health, most people battling internally with anxiety find it difficult to break out of a vicious cycle that holds them captive. Here are a few breathing techniques to help you fight back and overcome anxiety.
Yoga | Image via Flickr by Marco Verch Professional Photographer
Mindful Breathing
Mindful breathing is a method that practices living in the present. It is designed for an individual to focus on the current state of mind without shifting their attention to the past or the future. This helps bring anxiety to a controlled state. You may use a calming focus which often is a word like “Om” or “Peace” that can be repeated during the breathing process. If you are unable to practice mindfulness at home, your options are plenty at a luxury day spa in Sydney to relax and refocus.
Belly Breathing
Belly breathing is a technique that involves daily practice. The American Institute of Stress believes that this practice can reduce anxiety, when repeated daily for a duration of 20-30 minutes. Let your stomach rise and fall when you inhale through your nose and exhale through your lips, respectively. However, if you wish to step out for a day of relaxation, Elysia Wellness Retreat would be a top pick for the nourishment of body, mind and spirit that will help calm your mind against stress and anxiety.
Lion’s Breath
Lion’s breath; the technique does justice to the title. This type of breathing helps ease stress levels by relaxing the muscles of one’s face. Lion’s breath is when you stick out your tongue to roar like a lion, in repetition for 7 times. Once inhaling with the mouth closed, exhaling should follow while maintaining the lion-like expression.
Relaxing Breath
Relaxing breath, also known as 4-7-8 breathing directly tranquillizes the nervous system. Inhale closed mouth with your nose for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds and exhale for 8 seconds in a whoosh sound. All these should be done while the tip of your tongue touches the back of the upper front teeth.
