We know you’ve probably heard or read signs that say “Just breathe” and that’s a good thing to
remember! However, it should probably read “Just belly breathe” as it is a great way to
instantly begin to calm yourself.
Here’s a quick trick:
Sit down and imagine you’re a Raggedy Ann Doll, limp and loose all over. Take in a breath
through your nose, keeping your mouth closed. When you see and feel your stomach rising,
slowly exhale through your nose again. Practice keeping your mouth closed, using only your
nostrils to breathe in and out. When you do this, your brain automatically registers that there’s
nothing to fear; therefore, no stress producing hormones like adrenaline or cortisol is pumped
through your body in preparation for a “fight or flight” reaction. You see, your body does not
know the difference between actual fear and imagined fear. If you breathe rapidly, with your
mouth opened, pulling in air as if hyperventilating, your brain registers that something is wrong
and pumps out adrenaline so you can run from danger. So, you want to calm that down by
relaxing your breath, by closing your mouth and breathing more slowly via your nostrils
allowing your brain to register that all is well. Soon, you will feel more relaxed and handle your
busy schedule in a much better way.
The Quick Way to Belly-Breathe Your Way to Peace:
#1 Close your mouth.
#2 Let your body go loose & limp like a Raggedy Ann Doll.
#3 Press on the side of your nose with your index finger and close off one nostril.
#4 Breathe in and out slowly, three times.
#5 Repeat on alternate side.
You will also find many calming remedies upstairs in our vitamin department from
supplements to tinctures, oils to soothing candles. Just ask for what you need and our team will help you.
Happy Holidays!