Relaxing Breathe Exercise

This exercise is simple, takes almost no time, can be done anywhere, and in any position (though sitting straight is preferred). Place the tip of your tongue against the ridge of tissue just behind your upper front teeth, and keep it there through the entire exercise.

&bull Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whoosh sound.

&bull Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose to a mental count of four.

&bull Hold your breath for a count of seven.

&bull Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whoosh sound to a count of eight.

&bull This is one breath. Now inhale again and repeat the cycle three more times for a total of four breaths.

This exercise is a natural tranquiliser for the nervous system. Unlike tranquilising drugs, which are often effective when you first take them but then lose their power over time, this exercise is subtle when you first try it but gains in power with repetition and practice. Do it at least twice a day. Do not do more than four breaths at one time for the first month of practice. Later, if you wish, you can extend it to eight breaths.