6 ways to breathe better everyday.
It’s one thing to realise the power of your own breath to change how you feel and think, it’s another to practice and use it everyday.
Slow, intentional breathing is proven to bring calm and focus to your mind and body. What would your day look like if you made your breath a companion for the day?
- When you wake-up
Get up! Turn off your alarm (again). Sit up on your bed. Take some deep, mindful breaths from the belly, through the nose. Get yourself centred and ready for the day ahead.
2. Get ready to work well
Train your brain to focus better at work by paying more attention to your breath. On your way into work, close your eyes and breathe deeply for one minute. Before a meeting, why not get your colleagues to join in to reconnect your mind, your body and your team. It will bring you closer together, and that’s always good for business.
3. At lunchtime
Sit somewhere away from your desk and preferably outside (weather permitting). Close your eyes and eat your first mouthful slowly, sensing all the flavours and textures. Now breathe for one minute and really savour the moment. And then enjoy every mouthful, slowly!
4. Afternoon tea
Stopping is often the most productive thing you can do. Give your mind a rest. Slow down your breath, slow down your day. Create your own tea ceremony. Take time. Make it beautiful. Have a breather…
5. With friends
Give someone a big hug. Heart to heart. Hold them a little longer. Breathe with them. Really feel being with them. Look into their eyes and smile.
6. Before bed
Lie down. Let the thoughts of the day come and go. If they keep on coming, write them down to clear your mind. Return to your breath. How does it feel? If you have trouble sleeping, breathe like a baby and you might also sleep like one too.
