Thursday, August 9, 2012

Day 40- Breath for Rest





This exercise is intended to help you practice using your breath to relax your body.  It is a way to be mindful and to relieve stress
To do this exercise you will need a mat. Start by lying on your back with your knees bent and your feet planted in the ground.  Place your hands on your belly and begin to inhale.  As you inhale count to six, and then begin your exhale, as you exhale count to seven.  Continue this breath pattern as long as you choose.  As you are breathing take your minds eye to parts of your body that might be holding tension.  Gently ask with your breath for these parts of your body to release that tension into the floor.  This is a diaphragmatic breath that goes a little deeper.  
Things to think about
Allowing images to pass through your mind can be helpful in this resting position.  It is also helpful to prop your feet and lower legs on a large exercise ball too.
This breath stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system to allow for rest and relaxation.  It is a great breath exercise to do right before sleeping.

No comments:

Post a Comment