Destress with Alternate-Nostril Breathing
If there's one thing life teaches us over the years, it's that we can't control the world around us—only our reactions to it. And when life feels overwhelming, and stress begins to weigh you down, remember: you have the power to pause, breathe, and reset.
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to manage stress is through alternate-nostril breathing, or nadi shodhana. This ancient technique helps calm the nervous system, lower anxiety, and restore balance—and it only takes about 10 minutes.
Why Try Alternate-Nostril Breathing?
Stress affects more than just your mood. It can accelerate aging, weaken your immune system, and leave you feeling mentally and emotionally drained. But with just a few minutes of focused breathing, you can create space to regroup, recharge, and feel more centered.
I practice this technique daily, and it’s become a cornerstone of my self-care routine. It’s incredibly effective, completely natural, and can be done almost anywhere—at home, in the office, or even while traveling.
Alternate-nostril breathing is a simple breathing technique that can help calm your mind.
How to Practice Alternate-Nostril Breathing
Find a comfortable seated position—either on a chair or on the floor. I like to sit on a cushion to elevate the hips and ease into the posture more comfortably.
Ready to begin?
Bring your right hand in front of your face.
Gently fold your pointer and middle fingers into your palm, leaving your thumb, ring, and pinky fingers extended.
Close your eyes and relax your gaze downward.
Take a few deep breaths to clear your airways and settle in.
Use your thumb to close your right nostril, and inhale through the left.
Close the left nostril with your ring finger, release your thumb, and exhale through the right.
Inhale through the right nostril, then close it with your thumb.
Release your ring finger and exhale through the left nostril.
Repeat this cycle for at least 10 minutes, alternating nostrils with each breath.
Be Gentle with Yourself
This practice isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating calm. Alternate-nostril breathing helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, reduce cortisol levels, and trigger the body’s natural rest-and-digest response. Over time, it can improve emotional regulation, clarity, and overall well-being.
Try committing to this practice daily for a month and notice how you feel. The transformation might surprise you.
Pair with a Calming Ritual
To enhance the benefits, I like to follow my breathing practice with a warm Cacao Latte, infused with adaptogens like reishi, ashwagandha, and cacao. It's a comforting ritual that nourishes both body and mind.
Give it a try—and let us know how it works for you!
