Are you constantly searching for ways to relax and de-stress after a long day? You’re not alone. It’s not always easy to find effective relaxation techniques that cater to the modern, fast-paced lifestyle. For this reason, I’m excited to introduce you to a quick and simple method that I recently discovered called Mimchi Breathing. This technique was shared with me by my martial art colleague, Grandmaster Bob Martin, and it can help you release tension and re-center yourself in just a few short minutes. Intrigued? Read on to learn how Mimchi Breathing works and how to do it!
What is Mimchi Breathing?
Mimchi Breathing is a powerful relaxation method that harnesses the power of your breath to help you physically and emotionally release tension. By focusing on your breath and engaging specific muscle groups, you can quickly let go of stress and anxiety built up throughout the day. The best part about Mimchi Breathing? It can be done anywhere, anytime, and doesn’t require any fancy equipment or complicated techniques – all you need is a quiet space and a few minutes to spare.
How to Perform Mimchi Breathing
Mimchi Breathing is a straightforward practice that involves a few simple steps. Follow along with these instructions for the basic exercise, and then progress to the variation when you feel more comfortable:
The Basic Exercise
- Sit comfortably. Find a quiet space where you can sit in a relaxed, upright position, with your feet flat on the ground. Close your eyes and bring your focus to your breath, letting go of any thoughts or distractions.
- Ready: Raise your ribcage by engaging your diaphragm and breathe normally for a minute. Maintaining this elevated position will help you accommodate deeper breaths as you progress through the exercise.
- Inhale: While keeping your ribcage raised, inhale deeply through your nose. Draw the breath all the way down to the lowest parts of your lungs, pulling your stomach in towards your spine. This is opposite to how we typically breathe.
- Hold: Maintain this full inhalation without allowing your ribcage to drop. Focus on holding your breath for a few seconds.
- Release: Exhale quickly through your mouth, allowing your whole body to relax and release the tension. Feel your muscles soften and your body sink into the surface beneath you.
Repeat this sequence three times, and remember to maintain the elevated ribcage position throughout.
The Variation
Once you become comfortable with the basic exercise, try this variation to enhance the relaxation benefits:
- Sit comfortably as before, preparing for the exercise.
- Ready: Raise your ribcage and breathe normally for a minute.
- Inhale: Take a deep breath in through your nose, bringing your stomach in toward your spine.
- Squeeze: While holding your breath, squeeze your eyes shut tight. If you begin to feel dizzy, immediately release the breath and relax. This is why it’s important to start this exercise in a seated position.
- Release: Exhale quickly through your mouth, allowing your whole body to relax at once.
Repeat the variation three times and see how you feel.
The Benefits of Mimchi Breathing
Mimchi Breathing can offer numerous benefits to those who practice it regularly. Here are a few reasons why you should consider including this technique in your daily routine:
- Stress relief: By focusing on your breath and engaging specific muscles, Mimchi Breathing can help you release tension and stress from your body, leaving you feeling calmer and more relaxed.
- Improved mental clarity: Clearing your mind and concentrating on your breath can help sharpen your focus and mental clarity, making it easier to make decisions and stay productive throughout the day.
- Enhanced mood: The release of pent-up anxiety and stress can lead to an immediate boost in mood and overall sense of well-being. This makes Mimchi Breathing an excellent tool for staying grounded and balanced, even on the most chaotic days.
- Increased lung capacity: By training yourself to take deeper, more intentional breaths, you may notice an increase in lung capacity over time. This can improve your overall respiratory health and make daily activities feel easier and more enjoyable.
In Conclusion
Mimchi Breathing is a simple, accessible relaxation technique that can be practiced anywhere and anytime you need a quick mental reset. Give it a try the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed and see the difference it can make in just a few minutes.
