Not everyone is a morning person; it’s a well-known fact, and morning people are equally admired and reviled by those who like to take the morning slowly.
However, while we wouldn’t want to put anyone off their morning coffee, we still think there are better ways to improve our alertness during those first few hours of the day.
In today's blog, we’ll showcase the incredible Awake breathing exercise and show you how to use this technique to feel more awake instantly and energized for the day!
Read on!
What is Awake?
The Awake breathing technique is a powerful method of stimulating the body safely and healthily that doesn’t rely on consuming caffeine or sugar to make you feel energized and alert.
If you’re struggling to get out of your comfy bed and keep setting your morning alarm on snooze, then it might be an ideal exercise to try out! Even better, you can do this exercise without even getting out of bed!
How The Method Works
Breathing is a vital tool for the body to control how we respond to our surroundings. Breathing more slowly helps us relax and calm down while breathing more quickly stimulates the body to action. Increased breathing activates our fight or flight response, causing us to be more alert to potential danger while improving our concentration and energy levels.
The Awake exercise harnesses the fight or flight response in a positive manner, by training the body to engage more quickly after waking, improving your mornings, and reducing grogginess without the help of caffeinated beverages.
How To Awake Your Body
Sit up straight when doing this exercise while relaxing your shoulders and keeping your arms loose.
- Inhale through your nose for six (6) seconds
- As you inhale, breathe slowly into your abdomen.
- Now exhale for two (2) seconds through your mouth.
- Try to ensure that your chest and shoulders are as still as possible.
- Repeat this round of inhale/exhale five (5) more times, for a total of 40 seconds.
The Awake exercise is an ideal technique to use early in the morning when you need an instant boost in alertness and activity.
However, don’t be fooled into thinking this is only appropriate for getting out of bed. The Awake technique is also suitable as an after-lunch boost or as a way to start your work day on the right foot. If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your energy before a session at the gym, the Awake breathing technique is also an ideal tool.
For more information regarding how to manage your breathing for a more effective lifestyle, visit our other blogs ,here at ,The Exhale to get the latest tips and tricks. For free guided breathing exercises that you can take anywhere, try out the Breathwrk app ,here and enjoy a FREE 7-day trial with access to ,everything we have to offer!
And remember: Breathe Better, Live Better.
Ciao!
