How is Diaphragmatic Breathing Practiced?
The procedure is very simple and effective: • Find a quiet place where you know you will not be disturbed. • Lie down on a flat firm surface on your back and put your right hand on your diaphragm (just bellow the belly button). • Close your eyes and breathe through your nose. • Put your left hand on your upper chest. You should feel no movement here. The breathing should come from your diaphragm and your right hand will gently rise and fall. • Notice the feeling and how it differs from chest breathing. • Consciously breathe through your nose, keeping your mouth closed. Feel the rising and falling of your diaphragm. • When you become used to breathing into your diaphragm, bring your attention to the flow of your breath. Just notice the flow. Is it smooth or jerky? Smooth it out, make it flow gently and smoothly. • Do not rush your breath. Be gentle. Let if flow and you will discover a rhythm to the breath. Be patient – while “breathing” sounds like an easy thing to do – diaphragmatic br