Also known as the Yogic Breath, this technique helps to relax the abdomen, a place where we tend to hold a lot of tension and anxiety, and improve breathing patterns to utilize the whole of our lung capacity. A great technique to prepare for meditation or asana practice, to soothe a racing mind, or to come back to happy and full breathing after a long session at the computer.
Begin sitting or lying down comfortably. Place your right hand on your belly and breath in through your nostrils to fill your belly like a balloon. Breath out through your nostrils to empty your belly. Do this for 5-10 breaths.
Place your left hand on your left side ribs. After inhaling to fill the belly, continue to inhale to fill the side ribs – your hand will feel your ribs expand. Breath out first from your belly, then from your ribs. Do this for 5-10 breaths.
Place your right hand over your heart. Inhale to fill the belly, continue to inhale to fill the side ribs, then keep inhaling to fill the chest – your hand will feel your chest rising with the breath. Breath out first from the belly, then the ribs, and finally the chest. Do this for 5-10 breaths.
Ensure that you are breathing softly and easily – no need for struggle or strain. When you are done, return to natural breathing and take a moment to notice what is happening in the body/mind after the 3 Part Breath.
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