Last week we went over what Pranayama is, this week we’ll go over how to bring it into your life.
Pursed lip breathing:
This is a great technique to use during times of immediate physical pain. I know that sounds extreme, but it doesn’t need to be extreme pain. This particular practice is great for any of the many invasive infertility procedures (including blood draws), as well as a bad tummy ache.
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Inhale through the nose
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Create a small circle with the lips (like drinking through a straw) and exhale longer than the inhale.
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Repeat
Diaphragmatic breathing:
We’ve been over this a few times, but the simple act of bringing your awareness to your breath can have a huge impact on you physiologically. If you feel tense, pain, stressed: stop. And notice your breathing. Sometimes it can feel difficult and there may be FEAR of [added] pain, but making a shift in your breathing can make all the difference.
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Place your hands on your belly
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Notice the belly expand as you inhale
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Notice the belly come back in as you exhale
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Focus on the movement of the belly as you repeat this breath
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After a few round see if you can extend your exhale to be longer than the inhale
If you’re interested in learning more ways to breathe and how to shift your perspective, check out The Paths – our course that helps you take charge of your fertility journey and meets you where you are at.