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. It’s also important to note that there are correct and incorrect breathing techniques. Take a deep breath right now and exhale. Did you notice if your body stretched up when you inhaled and slouched when you exhaled? Take one more breath and pay attention to the movement of your body if you didn’t notice it the first time.

Now take another deep breath in, but this time rather than stretching your body up, expand your belly out and pull your belly button towards the back of your spine when you exhale. 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. It’s common to feel faint after holding your breath for an extended period of time because you’re taking more oxygen in that what you’re use to. 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. Regardless of what type of breathing exercise you use, deep breathing will help your entire meditation practice. 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!