Tools to Help with Stress: Breathwork
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Breathwork (Pranayama) is a general term for mindfully changing your breathing. When you breathe in (inhale) using your belly and breathe out (exhale) slowly, it can help you to relax. Try these simple breathing techniques the next time you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious or stressed. Stay focused and practice the breaths 3-5 times each. Increase the number of breaths by one breath every couple of days. You can stop at any time. If you feel dizzy or nauseous, stop and take a break.
Make a circle with your hands, make the circle bigger when you inhale, and then make the circle smaller when you exhale.
Breathe slowly in through your nose, and then out through your mouth.
Making a buzzing sound while you exhale can help you to relax.
Sit straight and tall in a comfortable position. Try to release any tension in your face by thinking about softening it.
Close off your right nostril with your thumb and breathe in through your left nostril.
If you or your child continue to experience anxiety or stress, it is important that you call and speak with your healthcare provider. If you feel you or your child are in immediate danger, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
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