Belly breathing
Also called diaphragm breathing, slow breathing
- Works
- Deep trunk · transversus abdominis
- Needs
- No equipment
Setup
Lie on your back with your knees bent, or sit well supported. Put one hand on your chest and one on your stomach.
Steps
- Breathe in slowly through your nose so the hand on your stomach rises.
- Keep the hand on your chest still.
- Breathe out slowly through your mouth, a little longer than you breathed in.
- Keep going for the time you chose.
Breathing
In through the nose for about four counts. Out through the mouth for about six.
Where you feel it
Your stomach rising and falling, and your shoulders softening.
Common mistakes
- Lifting the shoulders to breathe in.
- Forcing very deep breaths.
When to stop
Stop if you feel sharp pain, pain in a joint, dizziness or numbness.
Stop and breathe normally if you feel light-headed.