After practicing yoga for over 16 years and teaching for ~6 years I can honestly say that pausing to take a breath is still something I work on to this day. Every time I practice yoga I am reminded about the gift of my breath - its sound and rhythm and how it teaches my body to slow down and listen. My job is to guide you through the postures but the true teacher is the breath.

Teacher Tip: Diaphragmatic Breath (aka Belly Breathing)

This breath practice is important for handling those fight or flight moments. You can practice this anywhere - while driving, sitting at your desk, managing conflict, etc.

How to Practice Belly Breathing

Belly breathing is easy to do and very relaxing. Try this basic exercise anytime you need to relax or relieve stress.

Put one hand on your belly just below your ribs and the other hand on your chest.
Take a deep breath in through your nose, and let your belly push your hand out. Your chest should not move.
Breathe out through pursed lips as if you were whistling. Feel the hand on your belly go in, and use it to push all the air out.
Do this breathing 3 to 10 times. Take your time with each breath.
Notice how you feel at the end of the exercise.

Put into Practice

Try this guided Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercise on Patreon!