Breath to Transform Fear : Tarzan Breath

Adapted from The Miracle of the Breath by Andy Caponigro

As our breath goes, so go our emotions. We can actually change the way we feel by changing the way we breathe.

This exercise can bring feelings of confidence and power because it helps open the chest muscles which can get locked up when we feel fear, and by promoting a strong flow of outbreath. It's a great way to start your day from the power of your core self rather than the chatter of anxiety.

1.) Sit in a comfortable position and focus your attention on the movements of your breath. Once your mind is attuned to these rhythms, inhale wtih a little more air than usual.

2.) As you exhale, make a strong, continuous "aaahh" sound and beat on your chest with alternate fists, as gorillas do. Let the sound arise from your chest rather than your throat

3.) Continue for 5 or 10 seconds and then return to your normal breath, allwing about 30 seconds to assimilate the new waves of energy. Notice any changes in your breath.

4.) Repeat 4 or 5 times, or as it feels right.

Enjoy!

Breathing Into Your Center

Connecting with your heart is one of the most powerful things you can do for your life, for your dreams, your business, your family. It opens up doors, it frees you to do what you are meant to do, much more than the worrying thoughts of the head.

This short exercise is a great way to center into that space, anytime. Place both feet on the floor evenly, whether sitting or standing. Allow your jaw to relax.

Breathe in through the nose for a count of four.
Hold for a count of three
Exhale through the mouth for a count of eight.
Repeat 4 times.

As you breathe in, imagine the breath going into your heart. Imagine what your heart looks like, and the blood becoming bright red with the new oxygen you are taking in. Thank your heart for being the gaurdian of the best things about you. Remember the wonderful things that make you who you are. Celebrate them, quietly, with love.

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Breathe Slowly, Give Your Heart a Rest

Take a moment to tune into your breathing. Allow your breath to become soft and slow, giving plenty of time for a nice, long exhale. Breathing slowly and in longer intervals allows your body to use less energy to get oxygen to all the cells of your body, and it gives your heart a chance to slow down as well. Since we only get so many beats in a lifetime, it's nice to use them up slowly!

Anytime you think of it, spend 30 seconds breathing slowly. Soon your body will get used to this new pattern, and it will be a natural way to slow down and become focused and efficient, in mind as well as body.

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