Breathe Easy: Breath Holding Technique to Reduce Anxiety - Intermediate Version

You have the power to dramatically shift your anxiety with this fast and effective breathing technique.

This video is an intermediate version (30 second breath holds) of the beginner's breath retention video: "Breathe Easy: Breath Holding Technique to Reduce Anxiety in Under 5 Minutes" (15 second breath holds). If you are new to pranayama and breathing exercises, please watch the beginner's version first.

After two breath suspensions with the breath held in, you’ll do one with the breath held OUT. That is the part that really has the biggest impact. I can get into the science of it on another video, but make sure you watch until the end!

Breath suspension (holding the breath, also known as kumbhaka) can change your body chemistry, but it has to be done right. It’s very important to stay calm and relaxed as you do so.

*This video contains specialized breathing techniques. If you are new to pranayama, take it slow and at your own pace. If you get dizzy or light-headed, switch to slow deep breaths. If you aren’t able to hold your breath for as long as the video prescribes, don’t force it. Listen to your body and trust that you know what is right for you. Dizziness doesn’t equal enlightenment! Practice responsibly.