How to Breathe for Meditation
Breathing is the foundation of all meditation and mindfulness practices. Deep breathing calms the central nervous system, and encourages the relaxation response in our bodies.
Step 1 Get comfortable - either sitting, standing or lying down.
Step 2 Take a deep breath in through your nose, and breathe out through your nose or mouth.
Step 3 Continue to breathe, and place one hand on your stomach, right over your belly button, and the other hand on your chest. Every time you breathe in, let your chest and stomach expand as they fill with air. Everytime you breathe out, let your stomach and chest relax as your body releases the air.
Step 4 Continue to breathe deeply, simply noticing the breath as it comes in and out of your body.
