Breathing is an important part of every type of meditation (both active and passive!) as focusing on the breath is an integral part of the practice.

Many forms of meditation begin by taking deep breaths, inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth. As with most things in life, there are optimal breathing techniques that will greatly benefit you. Take a deep breath right now and exhale. Did your body stretch upwards when you inhaled, followed by a slouch on your exhale? Inhale and exhale once more and be sure to pay attention to the movements of your body.

Allow your belly to expand as you take a deep breath in, then control your breath as you exhale and pull your belly button inwards. This might not feel natural at first, but this is the proper way to breath. Taking deep breaths like this allow more oxygen to circulate throughout the body and this will aid with your meditation practice.

Certain meditations have you hold your breath for a prolonged period of time. If you hold your breath for an extended period of time, you’ll most likely feel faint which is normal because typically you don’t deliver that much oxygen throughout your body. There are many benefits to deep breathing though, one of them being improved circulation.

Other breathing exercises have you take 10 deep breaths in through the nose followed by 10 quick breaths out of the nose. Deep breathing exercises will improve your entire meditation practice, regardless of what type of exercises you decide to do. You’ll be able to achieve greater relaxation and mental clarity, which will in turn lead to peace of mind and self-awareness.

Start being mindful of your breath in meditation and expand this focus to other areas of your life. Your meditation practice will improve and you’ll experience the other benefits deep breathing has to offer!

Tags: active meditation, breath meditation, breathing meditation, deep breathing exercises, deep breaths, passive meditation, relaxation, types of meditation