Unlocking Inner Calm: Breathing Techniques

Have you ever listened to your breathing? Not in a creepy, stalkery way, but in a slow, close-eyes-and-feel-your-nose kind of way. Sounds pretty calming, right? That's because deep, slow, and mindful breathing serves as the most intrinsic relaxation technique.

A few years back, I was supporting Maddox through an intense work phase. The pressure was immense, almost palpable. I remember one evening, he came home looking as if he was carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. And that's when it hit me - the power of breathing. We sat down, closed our eyes, and just breathed. Slow inhales, even slower exhales. I watched as the tension slowly melted off his face - breathed away into nonexistence. That, my friends, was my eureka moment!

But why does this work? Here’s a mini science lesson. Deep breathing stimulates our vagus nerve, which runs from our brain through our faces and thorax to our abdomen. This stimulation results in lowering our heartbeat and blood pressure, thereby calming us down. Cool, right?

The Charm of Yoga and Meditation

Yoga and meditation are not just buzzwords in the world of wellness. They are powerful tools which allow our over-active minds to slow down and focus on the present moment. Plus, who can resist the chance to use a cute yoga mat, right?

I know it can feel a bit intimidating (trust me, been there, sweated through that). The thought of contorting your body into pretzel-like postures can be daunting. But yoga isn't just about twisting and turning into impossible shapes. It's about connecting your mind, body, and breath. It's about taking a moment in your bustling day to just be, with no pressure or deadlines.

Now, let's talk meditation. I can already see a few raised eyebrows there! No, you don't need to be a monk on a hilltop to meditate. You just need five spare minutes (yes, hiding in the bathroom from your kids/spouse counts!) and an intention to relax. Meditation trains your 'monkey mind' to focus, helps you become more aware of your thoughts and leaves you feeling rejuvenated (like pseudo-sleep, really!).

Indulgences in Aromatherapy

I'm going to let you in on one of my obsessions: essential oils. They are like little magical potions brewed by nature herself, each possessing unique attributes to soothe, energise, heal, and relax us. You've got lavender for relaxation, peppermint for invigoration, lemon for freshness, rose for romance, the list is as endless as it is fascinating.

Aromatherapy draws upon the potent powers of these plant essences to heal not just the body, but also the mind. A blissful olfactory experience like a spa in your living room.

Pro tip: If you ever feel anxious or stressed, inhale deeply from a bottle of lavender oil. Almost instantly, you'll feel a sense of calm seeping into you. It’s a staple in our home. Even my Siamese cat, Bella, seems to find it calming. Though I keep it out of her reach, obviously. Cats and spilled oils are not a fun mix!

Soothing Power of Nature

Remember that feeling when you walk barefoot on grass? Or when you close your eyes and feel the sun warm against your skin? That's exactly what grounding or 'earthing' feels like. It might sound like a new-age fad, but it's science-backed.

Connecting with nature has a myriad of benefits. It reduces inflammation, aids sleep, relieves muscle tension, and gives your immunity a little power boost. Even a quick walking break in a green space or a sit-down under a tree can do wonders.

Living in Melbourne, I have the privilege of enjoying beautiful parks. That's where my favourite gum tree stands tall – my haven when stress or anxiety strikes. A foot-bare stroll there, touching the bark of my tree-friend, does wonders for my spirit. It's the break that doesn't end up breaking my rhythm.

Expressive Journaling

Nothing beats the good old charm of written words when it comes to expression. There's a kind of liberation in pouring your thoughts out onto a blank sheet of paper. It defogs your mind, brings clarity to cluttered thoughts and reduces anxiety.

You don't have to be a Shakespeare or a J.K. Rowling for this. It's all about letting the ink flow and your thoughts spill. You'd be surprised just how much stress you can offload onto that innocent little journal. And the best part? It never complains, never interrupts, and keeps all your secrets. Possibly better than some friends, right? (Just kidding! Or am I?)

Mindful Art Practices

You might be asking, "Lyra, what's the deal with mindfulness?" Well, to sate your curiosity, mindfulness is about being immersed in the present moment. One way to achieve this is through art, an extension of our innermost feelings and thoughts.

No, you don't need to create a masterpiece here. Draw a line, color a mandala, splash some watercolor on paper, or craft a little origami bird. What matters here isn't the outcome but the process, the act of creation.

A personal favourite is pottery. The feel of the cold, wet clay slowly taking form between my hands, the gentle whirl of the potter's wheel, and the invigorating smell of wet earth – it's a symphony for the senses. Plus, it's a bonus if you get to keep a wonky little pot after all the fun!

In the end, each of these techniques isn't just about battling stress but about building a healthier, happier version of yourself. So, whip out that yoga mat, pop open that essential oil, or scribble away in that tiny little journal. The key to a calmer you is just a deep breath away. Cheers to serene smiles and peaceful hearts!