Adventures In Movement & Breath

Resonance frequency breathing is light, slow, relaxed, rhythmical deep breathing of between 4.5 to 6 breaths per minute (bpm). This practice is usually done at rest – laying or sitting, or with very light, easy movements such as some gentle qigong flows.  

Numerous studies have shown that 4.5 to 6 bpm influences key systems of the body helping to maintain the balance between the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems, improving both mental and physical resilience.¹  

Studies also show that training aimed at a permanently slow breathing rate reduces laboured breathing and improves exercise performance².  

Slowing your respiratory rate encourages diaphragmatic breathing, optimises oxygenation of cells, stimulates blood pressure receptors, reduces dead space in the lungs, and curbs the onset of inflammation.

It also improves Heart Rate Variability (HRV). Whilst you may think your heart beats regularly like a metronome, this is not so. Heart rate increases as you breathe in and decreases as you exhale. Therefore, in general, the greater variation in each beat, the better.  

Do this simple 10-minute practice and note how you feel afterwards: 

Preparation:

Using this audio: 

Explore also an equal ratio of 5:5.

Feel free to comment below and share your experience.

Breathe light, slow and deep to help you leave any stresses behind and feel a sence of calm and relaxation.

A simple body-scan and breathing practice