Back to: Belly + Full Conscious Breathing
Belly Breathing

Full Conscious Breathing
A FOUNDATIONAL APPROACH TO HEALTH
Breathing is the most constant and necessary activity we do. It is not only the fundamental act that provides us with oxygen, but the manner in which we breathe is linked with the well-being of all systems within the
Many of us breathe inefficiently, taking shallow breaths using our chest muscles rather than our diaphragm.
When you practice conscious deep breathing, you are aware of the four distinct stages of breathing, which together complete one cycle of breath.

Stage One: Inhalation
Inhale slowly, deeply and consistently, breathing in from the core using the diaphragm.
Stage Two: Retention
Stage two involves retaining the air from the inhale.
Stage Three: Exhalation
Steadily and slowly, exhale the air retained after inhalation. Your muscles should return to a relaxed state.
Stage Four: Suspend
Stage four begins when lungs are empty. This is a pause, with no movement of air in or out of the lungs. Your muscles should stay relaxed in this stage before you begin the cycle again with stage one.
