Have you ever wondered… about rectangular breathing? I have. It is one of my favorite breathing techniques. While square breathing has been widely popularized in recent years, I do not enjoy that method as much. The key to rectangular breathing is to make your exhales longer than your inhales. I like to visualize a tall rectangle in front of me, so the shorter, horizontal lines are the inhales, and the longer, vertical lines are the exhales.
Sometimes, the most important thing in a whole day is the rest we take between two deep breaths, or the turning inwards in prayer for five short minutes.
-Etty Hillesum
The benefit to this practice of rectangular breathing is that you help your brain switch systems internally. While riled up due to anxiety, fear, or nervousness as a few examples, your sympathetic system, or fight or flight response, is currently in control. By settling into a pattern of rectangular breathing, you begin to prioritize your parasympathetic nervous system. This system is commonly referred to as rest and digest. You prompt relaxation within your body by extending lengthier exhales compared to briefer inhales.
Our breath is also like a wave, gently rocking us into a deep peace. In this state of rest, our body and mind can release their burdens. A lot of healing happens just by letting go and sinking into this state of total relaxation.
-Thích Nhât Hanh
How amazing is it that we can help our internal systems by consciously practicing a certain type of breathing? I am in awe of this ability, and it has already helped me numerous times; I hope you try it because I know how truly beneficial it can be.
I wonder if you will take it out for a spin… stay wondrous, y’all :) <3
Maybe it is wise. Maybe it is dumb. Time will tell.