We all know how to breathe but did you know that there are different ways to breath? There is the Whisper Breath which is a slow “ha” sound, as if you were fogging up a mirror. There is Breath of Fire breathing which faster forced inhales and exhales. There is Chant Breathing which repeats the word “Om” as you exhale. There is Alternative Nostril Breathing during which you alternate breathing through your nostril by pinching closed the one you are not using. Each type of breath creates a different physiological response in your body that can be used for healing. Breathing has been shown to improve sleep, decrease the stress hormone cortisol and alleviate depression. Practice with each of them to see how they make you feel. Adapted from Mindful Bites – Joyful Life: 365 Days of Mindful Eating. Available in bookstores everywhere.
Different Kinds of Breath
