The simplest of all breathing techniques and most natural, the long and deep breathing relieves stress and tension. It reduces toxic buildup in the mucus linings of the alveoli of the lungs, cleanses the blood and as a result of increased oxygen flow to your brain and body, your health improves in many ways.

• Technique

Sit in your most comfortable seated position.Relax your shoulders and chest. Inhale, relaxing the abdomen, pushing your belly forward, expanding it. Then, as you exhale, allow the abdomen to shrink back in, tightening your belly muscles and pushing the air out. Do this without straining yourself. Open up and free up the breath. You may place one hand on your belly to feel the abdomen expanding and contracting as you inhale and exhale. Practice in even lengths. Breathe out for the same length of time as you breathe in.

• When To Do This

Before meditation
Before going to bed
Before a meeting, presentation or a big decision
Before studying, before an exam, or an interview
And whenever you can think of --- in the car, at work, or while waiting in line