In most work environments where many of us spend the majority of the day, it is not appropriate to make too much noise. Office decorum requires we dial back any obvious display of languor. As a result, a "buttoned-up" demeanor might translate into restricted breathing. Daily stress can be greatly reduced by practicing simple deep-breathing techniques. Pranayama is the Sanskrit term for "breath control" and is the seed practice from which many breathing techniques stem.
Deep Breathing Exercise
Even in close quarters it is possible to discreetly improve your ability to think and handle work deadlines with an easy deep-breathing technique. Inhale through the nose for a count of four and pause for two and exhale slowly. Repeat several more times and then return to normal breathing. This brings oxygen into the lungs and moves toxins out in a very inconspicuous way, even in the most conservative work settings.
A Variation of "Lion's Breath"
Working against deadlines can make anyone hold their breath involuntarily. Practice simhasana or Lion's Breath when you take a walk to the water cooler when no one can see you or in the privacy of the restroom. Inhale through the nose for a count of three and exhale through the mouth, saying "Ha." Do this one to three times. It expels stress effectively without raising your blood pressure.
Widening the Breath
Expand your lung capacity and reduce stress with breathing by moving the breath to the side ribs. Set your palm on either side of your ribcage. Inhale through the nose and direct your breath immediately to your hands and move your hands away from each other with your breath. Pause at your maximum and slowly exhale. Repeat several more rounds. This keeps lung tissue elastic and helps to give you a more complete inhalation and exhalation.
