My favorite….. Breathwork

So during the pandemic I suffered a wee bit of anxiety. Well, in reality my anxiety came to light. I always thought that my nervousness surrounding stressful situations was perfectly normal and all who had breath in their lungs had the same reactions and responses that I did.

While having a conversation with a friend (who happens to be a therapist) about a difficult situation, she stopped mid conversation and said “you know this is a panic attack, right?“. Well no, I did not know this thing I’m experiencing actually had a name. Doesn’t everyone do this? So there ya have it. I apparently have anxiety and panic attacks. Ugh. But but but…. I’m a yoga instructor!! We don’t have that!!!

This epiphany had me searching for more ways to deal with my newly discovered anxiety. Yoga is fabulous and I love it. Meditation is also incredible and I love that too. Both of those are only available to me when I have the time and space to do them. In the moment, I need something quick and effective. It’s a natural thing to take a deep breath when we’re feeling flustered, nervous or scared. This is when I discovered that my breathing helps to calm me down.

I did some research and found a certification so I could share my newfound love with others. my research led me to a 2 week workshop and I was hooked. I continue to be fascinated by the breath and how it affects the body, mind and spirit.

Try this now. Breathe in to the count of 4. Hold at the top for 4. Now exhale to the count of 4. Do it another 4 times. How do you feel? Ya see what I mean??? It’s magical. Ok, maybe not magic but actual science. More on that in another post. In the meantime, whenever you feel those annoying nervous jitters, try the breathwork above. Love you.