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Do all yoga breathing through the nose -- no mouth breathing
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Relaxing with a couple of deep breaths
Think about the many times you've heard someone say "Now just take a couple of deep breaths and relax." Well, it really works! Yogic breathing is like sending a fax to your nervous system with the message to relax.
Try the following exercise:
1. Sit comfortably in a chair.
2. Close your eyes and visualize a swan gliding peacefully across a crystal-clear lake.
3. Now, like the swan, let your breath flow along in a long, smooth, and peaceful movement. Ideally, inhale and exhale through your nose.
4. Extend your breath to its comfortable maximum for 20 rounds; then gradually let your breath return to normal.
5. Afterward, take a few moments to sit with your eyes closed and notice the difference in how you feel overall.
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Reaping the benefits of yogic breathing
In addition to relaxing the body and calming the mind, yogic breathing has a spectrum of other benefits. Here are some:
-It steps up your metabolism (the best way to prevent weight increase).
-It uses muscles that automatically improve your posture.
-It keeps the lung tissue elastic, which allows you to take in more oxygen.
-It tones your abdominal area.
-It strengthens your immune system.
-It reduces your levels of tension and anxiety.
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