While looking for gifts to help a friend relax, I came across various devices to help control breathing by blowing through them. Called “straw breathing” it can help to quickly reduce anxiety
It reminded me of a physical therapist who taught me to blow up a balloon as part of postural restoration. It definitely helps with relaxation.
If you don’t have a straw lying around, make one from a piece of scrap paper. Watch the video. No need to wax though.
Sit comfortably with your back straight, face, neck and shoulders relaxed. Allow your lungs to expand fully.
Inhale through your nose and exhale fully and slowly through the straw. Do not force the breath out.
If you don’t have a straw handy, purse your lips, and use your hand to mimic holding a straw. However, it will feel a little bit different than using a straw.
Repeat for about five minutes.
Try to breath down into your abdomen, feeling the movement of the abdomen as you breathe in and out.
There are a variety of stress necklaces that you can purchase that look like jewelry. Some make a tone so you know if your actually “in the zone.” Before purchasing one, try using a straw .
Note that breathing through a straw can strengthen lung capacity as well as help with such conditions as laryngospasm (muscle spasm in the vocal cords) and GERD.
Below are videos that demonstrate "straw breathing."
No comments:
Post a Comment