We are all born belly breathers, but as stress sets in, we quickly begin to take shallow chest breaths. But deep abdominal breathing, where air fully fills your lungs and your lower belly rises, has many benefits including slowing your heart rate, reducing blood pressure and relieving stress.
In this short video, psychotherapist, award-winning author and former Buddhist monk, Donald Altman, demonstrates 5 postures to help deepen your breath.
Donald Altman, MA, LPC, is a teacher and adjunct faculty at Portland State University. He is also a faculty member of the Interpersonal Neurobiology program at Portland State University and teaches various classes blending mindfulness and Interpersonal Neurobiology. One Minute Mindfulness featuring Donald Altman, M.A., LPC.