Notes on Breathing Exercises and Self-Care

Self-Care and Breathing

• It's important to honor yourself and do what feels good.
• Relax your shoulders as you breathe.
• Take time to pause if your mind is racing.
• Take breaks to get up, use the bathroom, get water, dance, etc.

Importance of Breath

• Be mindful of your breath throughout the day.
• Many times people take shallow breaths throughout the day without realizing it.
• Remembering to breathe fully is crucial before delving into somatic practices.

Breath Work Exercise

• This exercise is beneficial at the end of a long day or after working with clients on heavy topics.
• Lay down on the ground, couch, or bed in a comfortable position.
• Place your hands with palms up and close your eyes.

Visualization

• Imagine a stream flowing through your body.
• The stream collects any "muckiness" or negative energy.
• Focus on areas with pain or emotional hurt and imagine the stream flowing through.

Process

• The stream flows from your head, through your shoulders, chest, belly, hips, down your legs, and out your feet.
• Go at your own pace.
• Breathe in through your nose and out through your nose or mouth.
• Make sure your feet and hands are relaxed.

Completion

• Once you feel fully cleansed, end the practice as desired.

• Options include:

  • Chanting "Om"
  • Placing hands in prayer
  • Simply getting up and continuing your day

• This exercise can also be done with your eyes open, but closing them can enhance visualization.