7x7 Breathing

Breathe each time you hear the bell.

The goal of this breathing routine is simple: slow your breathing down and gradually work toward breathing entirely through your nose. Ideally, inhale and exhale through your nose for the entire routine. If that isn't comfortable yet, inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. If you're unable to maintain that, breathe through your mouth as needed.

Don't force it. The goal is to develop enough control that, over time, you can slow your breathing down and complete the routine using nasal breathing only. As you breathe, pay attention to the rest of your body. Notice your jaw, shoulders, stomach, and hips. Are you clenching your jaw? Tensing your shoulders? Bracing your stomach? Tightening your hips?

You're trying to relax and regulate your breathing, not create more stress by forcing yourself to "do it right." Stay within what you can comfortably control and allow your breathing to become slower, quieter, and more relaxed as you go.

If you'd like personalized coaching on breathing, breathwork, or learning how to use your breath to improve performance and recovery, contact OPT Beyond Fitness through our website optimalaz.com or @optfitness on IG.

Enjoy =)