Breath

I wanted to write more about breath and its power today, a topic I started writing about last week. While I am not a breathwork expert, I have used the breath to help me heal in many ways over the years. Breath ties your mind and your body together and allows your heart to shine through. Simply taking deep, long breaths for several moments of stillness can reorient your mind and help you feel more grounded and present. 

There are many teachings and some research out there about different ways to breathe and their effects. There are ways to breathe that energize you, relax you, and many other types in between. Today I wanted to write to you about the 4-7-8 breath taught by Dr. Weil, which is also the breath I teach to children experiencing anxiety. This is a useful and helpful tool to keep in your toolbox when needed. 

4-7-8 Breathing (adapted from Dr. Weil and Go Zen)

1. Exhale completely through your mouth
2. Inhale through your nose to a count of 4
3. Hold for a count of 7
4. Exhale for a count of 8 through your mouth
5. Repeat 3 more times

I hope this breathing exercise is helpful. I’ve found it to be very helpful for me! Remember to breathe when you feel out of control, lost, confused, or anxious. It may help you regain your footing and come back to yourself.

On a closing note, here is the Go Zen video about 4 7 8 breathing that I watch with the kids I work with. It’s a lighthearted way to approach the breath! Enjoy!