There are many ways to tackle stress and anxiety issues. Among them, breathing exercises are powerful tools to calm a stressful mind and bring relaxation.
When you breathe in your blood cells receive oxygen, releasing carbon dioxide. They are carried back to the lungs to be exhaled as a waste product.
Sometimes improper breathing disrupts oxygen and carbon dioxide exchanges, causing anxiety, fatigue, panic attacks, and other emotional disturbances.
So, let’s look at these breathing exercises to reduce anxiety and stress and welcome a relaxed you.
Alternate-Nostril Breathing: It includes blocking one nostril and breathing in another alternatively in a relaxed and comfortable position. It not only calms the mind but also controls emotions.
Belly Breathing: Also known as abdominal or diaphragmatic breathing, you can do it by sitting on a chair or lying down in a quiet place. Here, you place a hand on your chest and another above your belly bottom and feel your breath while exhaling through pursed lips.
Box Breathing: Box breathing or four-square breathing is a very simple exercise where you exhale to the count of four and then hold your lungs empty for the count of four. Then inhale to the count of four and hold the air in your lungs to the count of four. Now repeat the pattern.
Lion’s Breath: Also known as ‘simhasana’ in Sanskrit, in this exercise, you stick out your tongue and roar like a lion. It’s a deep breathing exercise, helpful for relaxation and relieves stress in the face and jaw.
Sitali Breath: In this exercise, you inhale through your mouth with a curled tongue and exhale through your nose. This exercise helps lower your body temperature and relax your mind.