Prime Your Nervous System for Food with 4-7-8 Breathing

Pranayama is a yogic breathing practice that focuses on controlling and regulating the breath to promote both nervous system and digestive health. It involves intentional breathing techniques like deepening and slowing the breath to improve body functioning, reduce stress and promote vital energy flow. 

Here's how to do it:

Step 1- Inhale through your nose, counting to four, while silently counting in your head. 

Step 2- Hold your breath, counting to seven. 

Step 3- Exhale through your mouth, making a "whoosh" sound, counting to eight. 

Step 4- Repeat the cycle three or four times. 

Step 5- Rest: Allow a few seconds of rest between breaths before starting the next

Here's when to do it:

Before bed to promote better sleep

Before eating to promote better digestion 

Immediately after dealing with a stressful event or person

Any time you feel you need a nervous system reset from anxiousness, hyperactivity etc,

This type of breathwork is designed to not only bring a mindful awareness to how you are breathing in and out of your body, but it is designed to tap you into your "rest & digest" part of your autonomic nervous system and out of the chronic stressed stated that most of us live in day to day.

Breath work is a practice so start where you can and please note that if you have any health concerns, are pregnant, have heart issues etc. it is always good practice to check with your primary medical care provider to ensure that you are cleared to do this type of breathwork.

Jenn xx