Mastering the breath and other relaxation techniques
The breath is powerful. It can help us center ourselves, control our emotions and even lower our stress and blood pressure. There’s a lot going on folks, so I am taking a lot more time to breathe and relax. I want to take the time to share a few ideas with you. I want you to try at least one right now. That’s right. Right now!
Sympathetic Breathing:
Sit still and relax into whatever you are sitting on. Slowly close your eyes. Breathe in through your nose to the count of three. Hold it to the count of three and then release it through your mouth to the count of three. Repeat this, three more times.
Power Breathing:
Relax into your seat. Close your eyes and tune into your breath. Notice how you are breathing. Breathe in through your nose to the count of four. Hold the breath to the count of seven and then release it through your mouth to the count of eight. Repeat three more times.
Sixty Second Neck Roll:
This is just what it says it is. You do one neck roll for sixty seconds. That means nice and incredibly slow. One neck roll.
Shoulder Drop:
Raise both shoulders up to your ears. Hold them there to the count of four and then drop them quick. Repeat four more times.
Shoulder Roll:
Roll your shoulders front and then back ten times.
Hand Massage:
Massage each individual finger on your hands. Check in and notice if there is any discomfort or pain.
Side to Side Head Movement:
Lean your left ear toward your left shoulder. Hold it for two seconds. Lean your right ear toward your right shoulder. Hold for two seconds.
Repeat five times. Turn your head to the right, hold for two seconds. Turn your head to the left, hold for two seconds. Repeat five times.
You can combine the breathing with the movements or do any of this by itself. The point is to commit to taking time to stop and take care of you right now, in the moment.
Right now, I choose both breath and movement. Let me know what you chose to do.
In love,
Dr. Lynne
