Calming Overwhelm - Diaphragmatic Breathing

Cultivating the skill in noticing & improving breathing patterns to facilitate calm

Overview

Step 1 - Learning the Four Phases

Step 2 - Slowing Down

Step 3 - Finding Enjoyment

Long Version (~35min)

Short Version (~13min)

Practice Visualization

Overview

What	Cultivating the skill in noticing & improving breathing patterns to facilitate calm
Benefits	Recurring automatic relaxation and calm with every breath Reduced Anxiety Supports Softening Skill
Instructions	Lower Belly Breaths Intentional gentle slow diaphragmatic breaths - pushing the lower belly out&in Belly-Ribs Breaths Starting with DPB, then allowing the air to fill the ribs Belly-Ribs-Chest Breaths Starting with DPB, followed by ribs, then allowing the air to fill up the chest Natural Diaphragmatic Breaths Letting go of any intentional breathing Being curious and observing how the diaphragm naturally engages Teaching the mind a calmer way of breathing, by experiencing and enjoying the relaxation from it
Consider	Lightheaded or Dizzy This may be a common sign of adjustment to a new way of breathing. Pause & breathe naturally again until you feel ready, then start again. Strain This may be a sign of excessive effort. Bring an attitude of gentleness and allowing the body to welcome your suggestions, rather than of struggling or forcing.
Daily Life	Notice your breathing patterns throughout the day When non-diaphragmatic breathing is occurring (during a non-cardiovascular activity), practice 5 gentle slow diaphragmatic breaths to retrain your breathing pattern in the moment
Progress	Recognize one's breathing patterns Ability to activate DPB DBP increasingly becomes the default way of breathing DPB feels relaxing and calming
Acknowledgement	MIDL