Breathing Exercises from Our Yoga Instructor
From the desk of Marjorie Clapp, RYT… Proper breathing, a key aspect of any yoga practice, can ease stress, lower blood pressure, and even prevent weight gain. One of my favorite breathing exercises is one I learned from Dr. Weil called the 4-7-8 exercise.
This simple sequence can be done anywhere, and I often find myself doing it when I’m stressed, angry, or can’t sleep.
1) Exhale completely through your mouth. 2) Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose for four counts. 3) Hold your breath for seven counts. 4) Exhale completely through your mouth for eight counts. Repeat this cycle three more times.
This slow, deep breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, stimulating the "relaxation response." Just a couple deep breaths can help you get through any difficult situation or mental block. I recommend doing it at least once a day.
Marjorie Clapp, RYT
Registered Yoga Teacher
Marjorie completed her 200-hour certification at Sonic Yoga's Center for Yoga Studies in 2008. Her teaching style blends strong sequences, flowing stretches, and restorative breath-work for a well-rounded Vinyasa flow that is accessible to all ages and abilities. Marjorie draws from nearly ten years of experience, making her classes diverse and creative. She also offers specialized pre-natal and post-natal yoga classes for mothers and mothers-to-be.
Marjorie graduated from Brown University with a degree in International Relations in 2007. She trained as a holistic health counselor at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition in 2009 and is currently working towards becoming a Registered Dietitian.
“Live What You Love.”