Breath Tool: Alternate nostril breathing

If you are looking for a cleansing and calming practice to help regulate your nervous system, look no further than the alternate nostril breath tool. 

Alternate Nostril Breathing 

This breath tool calms the mind and brings our focus to the present. By focusing on the breath and lengthening the inhalations and exhalations, the mind and body start to slow down. If you practice yoga, you may also know that this breath technique is a cleansing practice that helps to balance energy in the body. 

How to practice it:

• Find a comfortable seat on the ground or on a cushion

• Take a deep exhalation

• Close your right nostril with your right thumb

• Inhale deeply through your left nostril

• Close your left nostril with your ring finger

• Exhale slowly through your right nostril

• Inhale slowly through your right nostril 

• Close the right nostril with your right thumb and open the left nostril 

• Exhale out the left nostril 

• Repeat, alternating between nostrils for 3 - 5 rounds

This tool brings you into the present moment and helps reduce stress and anxiety. It’s noted that Hillary Clinton began practicing this breath tool after losing the 2016 presidential election! 

Alternate nostril breathing is safe to use daily for most people. If you have a cold or underlying health condition, consult with a healthcare provider before beginning the practice.