BREATHING THE BELLY BREATH

Belly Breath Exercises deepens breathing, cleanses the lungs, increases energy levels and decreases tension. Belly breathing is the most efficient method of breathing. Infants and small children use only this method until the chest matures. This movement indicates full use of the lungs, resulting in a truly deep breath rather than the chest breath experienced by many as the greatest lung capacity. Chest breathing fills only the middle and upper parts of the lungs.

1. Lie flat on your back to get a proper sense of deep breathing.

2. Place small pillows under the neck and knees to reduce strain if necessary. The natural course of breathing in this position will create a slight rise in the stomach upon inhaling and a slight fall upon exhaling

3. Lay the palms of your hands on your stomach just below the rib cage, middle fingers barely touching each other, and take a slow deep breath. As the diaphragm pushes down, the stomach will slightly expand causing the fingertips to separate slightly.

4. Continue to practice the belly breaths for at least ten minutes on a daily basis to receive the best results.