09/07/2025
using your breath to release emotions
in the words of Thich Nhat Hahn, conscious breathing is your anchor.
one of the most effective breathing techniques out there is simply to breathe in for a count of 4 and breathe out for a count of 4.
breathe through your nose down into your belly.
as simple as this breath exercise might sound, it can take some practice, particularly if you normally breathe through your mouth and/or into your chest.
be gentle with yourself and your breath will follow.
as you are breathing, pay particular attention to the path of your breath.
how does it feel at the tip of your nose, as it passes through your throat, in your chest, and your belly?
can you feel which muscles are working?
can you feel your ribs expanding on each inhale and contracting on each exhale?
if your attention wanders to a thought or a feeling, witness that and then release it on your exhale.
return your attention to your breath.
once you are well practised with the above exercise, you can try to become aware of other things at the same time as you are aware of your breath.
What do you see as you inhale?
What do you hear as you exhale?
What emotions do you feel?
for each inhale, breathe as if it is the first breath ever taken.
you can do this exercise as long and as often as you want throughout the day.
even one slow, conscious, mindful breath can reset your nervous system and change the course of your day.
a gentle reminder that when I’m not feeling ok, I am many worthy things
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