23: How to regulate our nervous systems with the practice of pranayama

In the past years, this world has been an awkward place. Beautiful. Eye-opening. Heart-widening. At the same time, the landscapes society walked through offered edges, cliffs, cracks, crevices – in short, many occasions to trip and to fall.

Our realities are informed differently now than they have been in recent years. I found myself dealing with a lot of fear and anxiety grounded in the unknowing of all that life was throwing at us, besides personal battles, wins and losses that all happened in the shortest period of time.

The main questions I sat with was

How do I stay the most present, grounded, calm and authentic in an ever-changing, swirling world? How can I keep my breath fluid and gentle, my feet down and my heart beating strongly in its center at all times?

In order to not get too overwhelmed as an HSP in an ever-busy, ever-changing world routines and regularly practiced tools can be of sustainable support.

On another note: This post isn’t exclusive to HSPs only.

Whether you are an HSP or not – we all have experienced some form of fear and anxiety in recent years and can benefit of the tools shared below.

As an HSP myself, over the years I’ve been experimenting and practicing with techniques that have been supportive in times of anxiety and overwhelm.

Coming back to breath

Breath is one of the few tools that we have to easily alter our nervous system and the states it may find itself in when overwhelmed or agitated.

The art and practice of pranayama is a yogic practice that regulates the flow of our life force (= prana) throughout the body. Yama translates from Sanskrit as ‘gaining control’.

In this special episode, we will do 3 breathing practices:

1. Sama Vritti or Box breath

Sama Vritti is known as equal breath or box breath and is a powerful tool that can help clear your mind, slow down your heart rate, relax your body, and allow you to increase your focus.

2. Nadi Shodana or Alternate Nostril breathing

This intermediate practice involves breathing through one nostril at a time. It is a powerful way to bring harmony and balance to the energy pathways.

3. Bhramari or Bee breath

A breathing technique that helps to block out distractions and soothe the nervous system with the support of a humming sound. When we hum, we are happy. Calling in a buzzing hum creates a sense of safety for our nervous systems.

May this serve you, may this support you.

Learn more about Pranayama: https://anandasoul.com/blogs/blog/hig...

About Christina Zipperlen: https://sensitivematters.com/