Deep breathing exercise

The purpose of this simple breathing exercise is to focus on your breathing so when you actually do start stretching, you relax and your muscles are tension free. If you close your eyes during this exercise you may have more luck clearing your mind of other thoughts. Now is not the time to think about what you’re having for lunch or whom you may have forgotten to call. This time is for thinking only about your body, your breathing, and your movement.
To do this exercise, follow these steps:

1. Lie on your back on the floor with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Take a moment to feel neutral spine — the natural curve of your back as you lie on the floor.
2. Place your hands on your lower abdomen (see Figure 8-1), and inhale deeply through your nose and feel your rib cage expand as you fill your lungs with air.
3. As you exhale, push the air out through your nose or mouth. Feel your rib cage shrink back to its original size.
4. Repeat this exercise five times.

A few do’s and don’ts for this exercise:

• Do keep your lower back on the floor during this exercise.
• Do keep your body relaxed and free of tension.
• Don’t forget to feel your rib cage with your hands as it expands and shrinks.