BREATHWORK

Disclaimer: Do not do this exercise if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are on the first few days of your menstrual cycle. Also, refrain from this exercise if you just ate a big meal.

ITEMS NEEDED

• Comfortable seating

• White article of clothing

• Journal and a favorite writing instrument

• Favorite writing utensil

• White clothing - wear white, as this color is associated with purity, radiance, and the resetting of energy. Some believe that white may expand the reach of your aura.

WHAT TO DO

• Sit comfortably in a position that feels supported and relaxing.

• Write 3 things that you would like to release from your life. While writing, imagine these things falling away from you like autumn leaves.

• Inhale through your nose while expanding your diaphragm (belly). Exhale through the mouth, allowing the breath to fall from your lips. Do this three times.

• Ground yourself by placing your hands palm-sides down on your thighs.

• Using short, quick breaths, inhale and exhale through your nose. Make sharp exhales, pushing air out by snapping in the navel area.

• Start slowly and pick up speed as you become more comfortable.

• When you feel ready, do two rounds of 30 short, sharp breaths. On number 30, inhale deeply and bring hands together in prayer position above your head. Hold for 3 seconds, then take 3 more short breaths through the mouth. Exhale while simultaneously bringing your hands back down to the tops of your thighs.

• After 2 rounds, breathe normally for a moment. Do you notice any shifts? What differences are you feeling in your mind and body? Make note of any insights, thoughts, visions. Remain neutral in your interpretation -- assign no good or bad value to whatever comes up. Write down anything you'd like to release.