These Are the Things I’m Into These Days
I’ve always been curious about breathwork. I’ve tried it a few times here and there, but it was never something I stuck with consistently. It felt like one of those things you know is good for you but always gets pushed to the back burner. Lately, though, I’ve decided to take it seriously. In fact, I’m committing to a 30-day breathwork challenge, and it’s already making a difference.
Why Breathwork?
Breathwork has been around for centuries, rooted in practices like yoga, meditation, and even ancient healing traditions. It’s all about controlling your breathing to influence your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. The beauty of it is that it’s so simple yet incredibly powerful.
In the past, I used breathwork as a way to calm myself during stressful situations or to add a little mindfulness to my day. But now, I’m discovering just how transformative it can be when you make it a daily practice. The idea of committing to 30 days felt daunting at first, but I was ready for a change—and I love a good challenge!
The 30-Day Breathwork Challenge
For this challenge, I’m dedicating at least 15 minutes a day to breathwork. I’m exploring different techniques, including:
Box Breathing: A simple yet effective method where you breathe in, hold, exhale, and hold again for equal counts.
Wim Hof Method: Combining deep, rhythmic breathing with cold exposure to supercharge energy and focus.
Alternate Nostril Breathing: A calming technique often used in yoga to bring balance and clarity.
How and Why to Practice Alternate Nostril Breathing
Alternate nostril breathing, or Nadi Shodhan pranayama, is a yoga breathing exercise where people breathe through one nostril while holding the other shut, then change nostrils and repeat the process. This practice helps focus on the act of breathing, which is typically automatic, and can promote relaxation and grounding.
Benefits of Alternate Nostril Breathing
Studies suggest that practicing alternate nostril breathing regularly can:
Ease stress and anxiety
Help people relax
Lower blood pressure and heart rate
Improve lung function
Enhance brain function, including memory and movement skills
Risks of Alternate Nostril Breathing
Fortunately, alternate nostril breathing appears to be safe. A 2017 review of 44 studies found no side effects among participants, making it accessible for most people to try.
How to Perform Alternate Nostril Breathing
To try alternate nostril breathing:
Sit on the ground with a straight spine and relaxed shoulders.
Place the tips of your right index and middle fingers between your eyebrows.
Use your right thumb to gently close your right nostril.
Exhale through your left nostril.
Inhale deeply through your left nostril.
Close your left nostril with your ring and little fingers.
Release your right nostril and exhale through it.
Inhale deeply through your right nostril.
Repeat the process for about nine cycles or as recommended.
Yoga International suggests practicing alternate nostril breathing twice a day or during moments of stress, anxiety, or overwhelm.
Early Benefits
I’m only a few days into the challenge, but I can already feel some changes:
Mental Clarity: My thoughts feel less scattered, and I’m able to focus more easily.
Reduced Stress: There’s a noticeable drop in my overall tension. It’s like hitting a reset button on my nervous system.
Improved Sleep: Falling asleep has become easier, and I wake up feeling more rested.
Enhanced Energy: I have more sustained energy throughout the day, without needing that extra cup of coffee.
Lessons Learned
One thing I’ve realized is that breathwork isn’t about perfection. Some days, my mind wanders, or the technique feels challenging. But that’s okay. It’s all part of the process. The key is showing up and being consistent, even if it’s not perfect.
Join Me!
If you’ve ever been curious about breathwork, why not try it with me? Start small, even if it’s just five minutes a day. Experiment with different techniques like alternate nostril breathing and see what resonates with you. I’ll be sharing more updates throughout the 30 days, including tips, insights, and my favorite resources.
Let’s breathe our way to better health and a calmer mind together!
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