When we lengthen the exhale, we’re better able to find our power and invite a sense of relaxation to high intensity movement. Longer exhales cause the vagus nerve to send a signal to your brain, activating the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest) and easing the sympathetic nervous system (fight, flight, or freeze). The technique I share below is one that I practice when engaging in strenuous physical activity and training.
This practice has been instrumental in helping me find my flow. With a longer exhale, I find I can do hard things over longer stretches of time and build my overall endurance in my movement practices, whether that be hitting laps on the stairs, running, hiking, climbing, or a high intensity workout.
How to Breathe Into Challenging Movement with a Long Exhale Practice the Power of the Long Exhale 9:42 Take a few deep breaths in and exhale fully through the mouth, with the intention to get present as you begin your movement practice. Focus on your breath as it passes through the nostrils, and then try exhaling the air from your lungs with pursed…
