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Today is always the perfect time to experience your best self. But you'll never get anywhere by wishing and hoping. The key is to be intentional about wanting the optimal life so that you can make that first step toward a healthier and happier you. So, why not kick start this new version of yourself by improving the way you breathe?! Read on and start learning with this essential guide on breathwork meditation.
What is breathwork meditation?
Breathing is like the unsung hero of our body's functions─it's always there, doing its job. But, despite its importance, proper breathing techniques are often overlooked in our daily lives. Enter breathwork meditation.
This is an umbrella term for various exercises that help you consciously control your breathing. Also called mindful breathing, It focuses on the breath as the primary object of attention. When done properly, breathwork meditation can positively influence your mental, physical, and emotional state. Fortunately, you don't need a lot of know-how or apparatus to begin your breathwork journey. It's also simple yet effective and can be done anywhere, anytime.
Benefits of breathwork meditation:
Below are several ways that correct breathwork meditation can enhance your overall well-being:
- Oxygenation - The circulatory system needs oxygen to bring blood close enough to the cells to deliver nutrients efficiently. Breathing better allows optimal oxygenation of the blood.
- Stress reduction - Proper breathing has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety by activating the body's relaxation response.
- Better digestion - Breathing deeply can also aid digestion by affecting the gastrointestinal system.
- Boost endurance - Studies show that deep breathing can increase lung endurance capacity among healthy adolescents.
- Enhanced mood: During slow breathing exercises, participants in one study showed higher positive energy and pleasantness.
Why use an infrared mat in breathwork meditation?
"Good enough never is,” so why settle for run-of-the-mill breathing techniques when you can take these to the next level? You definitely can with an infrared mat!
This cutting-edge wellness tool leverages infrared light that mimics the healing capabilities of the sun. This specific type of radiation comes from the invisible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Although the naked eye can't detect it, infrared light can deliver potent energy to the body in the form of heat. Its long wavelengths can reach deep into the cellular level to power up the mitochondria. These small but mighty organs support the human body's various biochemical processes.
And there are even more advantages to using an infrared mat with breathwork meditation. Lying or sitting on this cutting-edge device can help warm the body, increasing circulation and relieving muscle pain and stiffness. This makes it so invaluable if you want to be comfortable while staying in a meditative position for stretches of time. Additionally, it helps release tension and muscle knots, allowing for a more profound experience. However, please note that it's essential to consult with your healthcare professional before starting any new meditation practice.
Breathwork meditation techniques
Whether you're a breathwork novice or master, the warmth and comfort of the infrared mat can empower you to focus more effectively on your breath. This helps calm the mind and free you from disquieting anxieties or worries that can distract you from your meditation. And with multiple breathwork techniques to choose from, you can customize your practice to suit your needs. Here are several powerful (and popular!) methods to get your breathing "on a higher plane."
1. Box Breathing
Box breathing, or square breathing, is a powerful and simple technique. First, inhale for a count of four, then hold your breath for the same count. Next, exhale for a count of four, and then hold your breath again for a count of four. Repeat this cycle for several minutes, creating a steady and consistent rhythm for the breath. This type of breathing may help slow down the heart rate, lower blood pressure, and reduce stress and anxiety.
2. Alternate Nostril Breathing
Alternate nostril breathing, also known as Nadi Shodhana, is a yoga-based pranayama technique. The practice involves using the right thumb to close the right nostril and inhaling through the left nostril. Then, one uses the right ring finger to close the left nostril and exhales through the right nostril. This pattern is repeated, with the breath flowing through one nostril at a time.
A straightforward method, this breathwork may help balance the two hemispheres of the brain and the left and right sides of the body. As a result, it can help you get into a calm and centered state.
3. Diaphragmatic Breathing
Also known as abdominal or belly breathing, this technique activates the diaphragm muscle to promote deep and efficient breathing. Practitioners breathe deeply into the abdomen rather than shallowly in the chest. Begin by placing one hand on your belly and the other on your chest. Then expand the diaphragm as you inhale. Finally, contract it as you exhale.
This breathwork technique can enhance lung function and oxygenation. It can also help improve posture and core strength and alleviate certain respiratory conditions like asthma.
4. Ujjayi Pranayama Breathing
Ujjayi Pranayama breathing, also called "victorious breath," is a powerful technique. It is characterized by a soft, gentle sound made by slightly constricting the back of the throat. This action creates a soothing sound that helps regulate the breath and promote relaxation.
Ujjayi breathing may help increase oxygen flow to the body and brain. It is also said to help with respiratory conditions. It is often used as a tool to prepare for meditation, yoga postures, and other physical activities.
5. Psychedelic DMT Breathwork
If you're ready to explore new heights of consciousness, then psychedelic breathwork may be the perfect technique for you. Because it involves psychedelics or psychoactive substances, licensed mental health professionals must facilitate the sessions. They can assess your underlying conditions and suitability.
An incredibly intense practice, this type of breathwork utilizes a two-part or connected circular breath that oxygenates and alkalizes the blood. It also enables the release of DMT in the brain. Short for Dimethyltryptamine, DMT is a natural chemical from the Ayahuasca plant that can influence the vagus nerve. This enables you to get out of fight-or-flight mode and into your parasympathetic nervous system. The result? A rejuvenated mind and body!
Dosing up breathwork meditation with HigherDOSE
Breathe new life into your contemplation techniques with the HigherDOSE Infrared PEMF Mat. This ultimate recovery tool combines two powerful technologies to raise your vibrations to the next level. First, its PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) emits electromagnetic waves similar to frequencies found in nature. These stimulate a full-body reset. At the same time, the mat's infrared heat penetrates deeply to deliver healing energy for tissue repair and rejuvenation. But that's not all. Our Infrared Mat is also layered with heat-activated negative ions that regulate the happy hormone serotonin and enhance your mood.
With the HigherDOSE Infrared PEMF Mat, you can "dose up" your breathwork meditation like no other can. So, deepen your meditation sessions, experience total-body relaxation, and experience the high life—only with HigherDOSE. Shop our complete collection of at-home wellness devices today!
