Stress relieving breathing exercises

When dealing with stress on or off the hair salon floor, consider breathing exercises as a way to help. Pranayama or breath control has been practiced by yogis to alter the state of mind. We can use it today to lessen the effects of stress and anxiety.

When we slow down the breath, we are actually tapping into the parasympathetic nervous system which calms us.

Start your breathing exercises by taking a few moments to just begin noticing your breath. This can feel funny at first, but stay focused, and just notices the in and out breath. Simply taking a few moments to watch the breath can have a soothing effect on the mind and body.

Start noticing where the breath is. Usually we breathe in the lower ribs and upper belly. See if you can take a few breaths in the lower part of your belly, and the upper chest. Stay patient and flexible, breath takes some getting used to and practice.

You can start to work with anxiety through the breath by focusing on your exhalations and lengthening them. Count how long your exhale lasts for a few rounds. Try adding a second to your exhale for a few rounds. If you have the time try adding another second to the length of your exhale. Start becoming aware of the sound that your exhale makes and stay focused on this. Take a moment to pause in the stillness at the end of each exhale and then continue with the inhale again.

Remember not to force your breath and don’t overdo it. If you feel uncomfortable, just go back to your regular breath and come back to the pranayama if you feel ready for another round of practice.