You want me to do what with my nose?

Ummm… you want me to do what with my nose?

Yup, that might be the reaction you get from kids or anyone for that matter, but this funny-looking ancient yogic breathing practice is powerful!

Kids love doing goofy things so it shouldn’t be too difficult to get them to give this a try.

So what is it?

It is called alternate nostril breathing, also known as Nadi Shodahana Pranayama.  

    * Nadi = energy channel

·       * Shodhana = purification

·       * Pranayama = breathing technique

What is it good for?

Stop for a moment and close your eyes. Take a long, slow, deep breath in, and then gently exhale allowing the breath to slowly leave the body.

Notice how you feel. Less anxious? More relaxed? That’s the power of the breath, or pranayama as the yogis say.

The goal of Nadi Shodhana Pranayama is to purify the nervous system by balancing breath between the right and left nostrils, calming the body and mind.

 How do you do it?

This practice is for children 8 years and older, be prepared for some giggles but kids will soon get the hang of it!

There are various hand positions one can use for this practice; however, the easiest one for kids is simply using the thumb and index finger of the right hand.

The thumb will close off the right nostril and the index finger will close off the left. Curl the other three fingers in toward the palm and you are good to go.

·       * Find a comfortable seat and take a long, slow, deep breath in and out, close the eyes.

·       * Close the right nostril (with the thumb) and inhale through the left nostril, pause.

·       * Close the left nostril (with the index finger) and exhale through the right nostril, pause.

·       * Inhale through the right nostril, pause.

·      *  Close the right nostril and exhale through the left.

This makes one round. Repeat this cycle for 5-7 rounds.

Simple yogic breathing is a powerful tool for managing thoughts, emotions, and energy levels.

Introducing new concepts and techniques with your kids is easy, just practice with them. Don’t worry about getting it just right. Giggle a little bit and enjoy the moment!

Our book, Peace and Quiet, includes three easy breathing techniques for kids to use as a means of self-empowerment. Even the littlest of yogis can become calm, focused, and alert with belly breathing, bee breath, and bunny breath!

Click here for the FREE audio of the breathing exercises > 

Peace and Quiet Breathing Exercises

Happy Breathing! 

Kathe