Counseling and Yoga

I've recently discovered the benefits of yoga. One of the best parts of yoga, for me, is the breathing style. I've been practicing Ujjayi Pranayama which you can read more about here  Http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/2485 

The way we breathe is linked to the way we feel. When we are anxious we breathe quickly and shallowly. When we are relaxed we breathe slowly. Relaxed breathing balances our levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide which helps our body to function efficiently. When we are exercising our body needs extra oxygen therefore the increased breathing rate is still balanced. However, during anxious states we are taking in more oxygen and not using it; causing a temporary change in pH levels. This can lead to feeling clammy, lightheaded, or generally uncomfortable.

You can deliberately relax your breathing to feel better:

1) Sit or lie down comfortably. Close your eyes if you'd like.

2) Practice extended exhales: Take a gently deep breath and exhale for a count of two. Take another deep breath and exhale for a count of three. Repeat with the goal of reaching an exhale to the count of five.

4) Notice your breathing reset to calm at this point and continue breathing and exhaling slowly to relax. 

This is an easy technique that can help the whole family feel better centered. 

Be Happy, Be Healthy!

Aysha Hagene, LCPC

www.simplycounseling.com