Alternate Nostril Breathing.

In need of a practice to help you feel more calm? Try Alternate Nostril Breathing. In Sanskrit, it’s called Nadi Shodhana Pranayama, meaning, “Channel Cleaning Breath.” This practice can help us tune into our bodies and settle our minds.

To practice Alternate Nostril Breathing: 

1. Find a comfortable seated position.

2. Close off your right nostril with your thumb. Bend your pointer and middle fingers into your palm.

3. Inhale through your left nostril.

4. Close off your left nostril with your ring finger.

5. Open and exhale through your right nostril.

6. Inhale through your right nostril.

7. Close off your right nostril with your thumb.

8. Open and exhale through your left nostril.

9. This is one cycle. Repeat steps 3-8 for 10 rounds. Always complete the practice by exhaling through your left nostril.

10. Once you complete 10 rounds, release your hands to your lap and take a few deep breaths.

You can practice Alternate Nostril Breathing in the morning and evening, when you need to focus or relax, or before a yoga or meditation practice. You can also practice this exercise before an interview or public speaking event to help calm your nerves.