Tip Tuesday - The Power of Breath

​Everyday we face stress, and when it overcomes us, our bodies begin to harden inside to protect us from what it thinks we need to fight or run away from. It can feel like you're wearing clothes that are too small, too restrictive. When we harden, we tend to grip onto heavier emotions - anger, jealousy, sadness, fear.

Our breath is the key. When we breathe, deep and rhythmic, we tell our bodies everything is alright. We start to feel better, more comfortable in our own skin. When we feel good, the lighter emotions come out - joy, gratitude, love. We soften into who we are, rather than who we think we need to be.
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Pranayama Exercise: Dirga Breath also known as 3 Part Breath

Soften into yourself with a breathing exercise called 3 part breath.   3 part breath has its name because you are actively breathing into 3 parts of your abdomen. In separating each inhale and each exhale into 3 parts, you lengthen your breath and begin to focus the mind.  Some benefits of Dirga breath, include:

* Calm    the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety
*   Promotes full and complete breathing
* Increases oxygen supply to the blood
*   Releases muscular tension
*   Prepares for deeper meditation
How to:

Place one hand on your belly and one over your heart. Let your hands receive your breath. Then, break up each inhale and exhale into 3 parts. Breathing in, start with your belly, ribs, & chest. Then exhale chest, ribs, & belly. Continue with this rhythm for 1-2 minutes. Explore a longer breath after a few rounds. Then release the hands and simply enjoy your breath, it's with you every moment of every day.