Grief is a natural and complex response to loss, and it can often be accompanied by a range of low emotions such as sadness, anger, and anxiety. While it is important to honour and process these emotions, incorporating yoga breathing techniques into your grief journey can provide a valuable tool for managing and navigating through these challenging times. In this blog post, we will explore the power of yoga breathing and how it can positively impact your nervous system, offering relief and promoting healing.
Understanding Yoga Breathing:
Yoga breathing, also known as pranayama, is a practice that focuses on controlling and manipulating the breath to enhance physical and mental well-being. It is based on the belief that the breath is closely connected to our emotions and has the power to influence our state of mind. By consciously regulating our breath, we can activate the body's relaxation response, reduce stress, and promote a sense of calm and balance.
Water, Whiskey, and Coffee Breathing:
To better understand the different effects of yoga breathing, I've followed a brilliant way of practising breathing by Yoga Body Lucas Rockwood. It can be likened to three distinct beverages: water, whiskey, and coffee. Water breath represents a balanced and calming breath that can be practised anytime, day or night. It helps restore equilibrium to the nervous system and can be used freely without any concerns. On the other hand, Whiskey breath is a slower and deeper breath that promotes relaxation and relieves stress. It can be particularly helpful when experiencing heightened emotions or difficulty falling asleep. Lastly, coffee breath refers to a more energizing and invigorating breath. It increases alertness, prepares the body for activity, and enhances focus. Understanding these different breathing patterns allows us to choose the most suitable technique for our emotional state.
Implementing Yoga Breathing in Grief:
After losing Paul, when grief overpowered me. Keeping checking in with simple breathing exercises navigated me through a difficult time. Then, during the pandemic, I discovered an easy way of practising breathing, using the Yoga Body Breathing at almost any moment of my day. When experiencing low emotions in grief, in a shop as I did then, while driving, or being home, implementing yoga breathing techniques can be a powerful tool for self-care and emotional regulation. Here are a few simple techniques that you can try:
1. Balancing Breath (Water Breath)(Audio option):
- Find a comfortable seated position.
- Close your eyes and bring your attention to your breath.
- Slowly inhale through your nose for a count of four.
- Hold your breath for a brief moment.
- Exhale gently through your nose for a count of four.
- Repeat this cycle for several minutes, focusing on the sensation of the breath entering and leaving your body.
2. Relaxing Breath (Whiskey Breath) (Audio option):
- Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
- Take a slow and deep inhale through your nose, filling your belly with air.
- Exhale slowly through your mouth, releasing any tension or stress.
- Continue this deep, slow breathing pattern for a few minutes, allowing your body to relax and unwind.
3. Energizing Breath (Coffee Breath) (Audio option):
- Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart.
- Inhale deeply through your nose, expanding your belly.
- Exhale forcefully through your mouth, making a "ha" sound as you release the breath.
- Repeat this quick and energizing breath for several rounds, feeling a surge of energy and vitality.
Incorporating yoga breathing techniques into your grief journey can provide immense support and relief during low emotions. By consciously engaging with your breath, you can activate the body's relaxation response, reduce stress, and promote emotional healing. Experiment with the different breath patterns and find what works best for you at each moment. Remember, your breath is a powerful tool that can bring comfort and peace amidst the challenges of grief.
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