Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection BreatheDeeply
New Awareness What behaviors have you changed or implemented since we last met?
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Learning Objectives 1.Be mindful of breathing & how you move through life 2.Awareness of current breath pattern 3.What is your breath doing when you are lovingly engaged 4.Practice conscious breathing 5.Connect to your feelings 6.Learn how to get grounded
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Assessment Questions
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Breath is Essential Connects you to your body and the present Essential for life, detoxifying Connects you to prayer, life-force Breathe in oxygen and breathe out toxins Respond with calming breath rather than react with hastened breath Automatic breath vs. mindful breath
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Shallow Breath We have unintentionally trained our bodies to breathe shallowly Our respiratory system is quick to respond to any stress Stimulates the fight or flight reflex Imbalance of gases – build-up of toxins Build-up of tensions, negative emotions
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection How the Breath Works Inhalation Exhalation
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Physical Benefits of Deep Breathing Stimulates relaxation Calming of the nervous system Slows pulse and lowers blood pressure Release of neuropeptides (chemical residue of stuck emotions) Release of tensions, pain Release of toxins Mental clarity
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Chewing Stomach does not have teeth Digestion starts in your mouth Chewing sends signal that a party is coming!
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Nasal Health - Cleaning Neti pot and Nasopure –Cleanses and moisturizes the sinus –Flushes excess mucus and debris –Promotes good sinus and nasal health –Creates a difficult environment for bacteria to grow
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Oil your nose –Oil acts as a secondary barrier to bacteria, dust and germs –Useful to combat the effects of drying heating and cooling, travel and dehydration –Use unrefined olive oil or sesame oil Nasal Health - Moisture
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Benefits of Deep Breathing and Meditation Deep breathing is the gateway to meditation Settles the noise of your mind and emotions Decreases muscle tension Increases blood flow and slows heart rate Enhances the immune system Can increase creativity and productivity
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Breathing and Meditation Tips Best in comfortable environment without distraction Use a mantra, inner chant, affirmation, prayer, or word Be patient and consistent Open yourself to emotions that may surface Practice sitting in silence, clear your mind Smile while meditating
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Mindful Breathing Focus on Breathing IN and OUT Practice breathing exercises Be in the present moment through the breath Mindful living leaves no regrets
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Alternate Nostril Breathing
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Breath of Fire Sit in a comfortable position Focus on your lower belly Breathe in and contract the abdominals Breathe out and release the contraction Repeat 10 to 20 times
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Meditation Practice
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Learning Objectives 1.Be mindful of breathing & how you move through life 2.Awareness of current breath pattern 3.What is your breath doing when you are lovingly engaged 4.Practice conscious breathing 5.Connect to your feelings 6.Learn how to get grounded
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Action Plan Fill out action plan Anchor your learning – read the Breathe Deeply chapter Fill out daily feedback form
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Your Thoughts? Q & A, Discussion
Copyright © 2011 The Wellness Connection Please Complete Feedback Form Three things I liked from today’s class are… Three things I didn’t like are… Three things I would change are…