Release stress with Lion’s breath
The week is in full swing, and I don’t know about you, but I’m already feeling the pressure. Errands, traffic, back-to-back meetings—sometimes it feels like there’s no time to breathe, let alone find balance. Maintaining a healthy work-life rhythm is no easy task. I hear it all the time from friends: skipping meals, grabbing snacks on the go, struggling to squeeze in a workout between work, family, and everything else.
That’s why it’s more important than ever to carve out a few moments just for yourself—even on your busiest days.
Recently, during an awareness meditation, the instructor said something that really stayed with me: “You can find space for yourself anywhere—even alone in the bathroom, if that’s where peace finds you.” It’s a beautiful reminder that self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as breathing.
One of my favorite techniques for quick stress relief is Lion’s Breath—a powerful, energizing breathing exercise that takes less than 10 minutes and can be done anywhere. It’s playful, effective, and deeply restorative.
This breathing exercise can invigorate and destress you in less than 10 minutes.
What Is Lion’s Breath?
Lion’s Breath (Simhasana Pranayama) is a yoga breathing technique that helps relieve tension, especially in the face and chest. It encourages deep exhalation, releases built-up stress, and even improves circulation and cardiovascular function. Best of all? You don’t need any equipment—just a quiet spot and a willingness to let go.
Here’s how to do it:
How to Practice Lion’s Breath
Find a comfortable seated position—on a cushion, chair, or couch.
Rest your hands on your knees, palms down.
Inhale deeply through your nose.
Open your mouth wide, stretch your tongue out toward your chin.
Exhale powerfully with a “ha” sound, letting the breath come from deep in your belly.
Pause and breathe normally for a few seconds.
Repeat up to 10 times, slowly and mindfully.
You might feel a bit silly at first—but trust me, it works! It’s like releasing steam from a pressure valve. After just a few rounds, you’ll feel lighter, calmer, and more centered.
Enhance the Effect: Wind Down with a Ritual
After my Lion’s Breath session, I love making a cup of herbal tea or a nourishing and calming Cacao Latte with calming ingredients like ashwagandha and adaptogenic cocoa. It’s the perfect way to seal in the benefits of the practice and reset for whatever comes next.
Give it a try and let us know how it works for you. Sometimes, all it takes is one deep breath to change your entire day.
