'When the breath wanders, the mind is unsteady,' goes a famous saying in yoga, showcasing the importance of breathing right. According to the discipline, being in control of one's breath allows a person to control their mind as well, and it's even considered an anchor in life. At a time when stress and anxiety are pretty common, especially among women, practising effective breathing techniques can be a simple way to handle stressful experiences. Kochi-based yoga expert Dr Akhila Vinod of Yogashram shares two breathing exercises that can be practised anywhere, by women of any age. 

1) Nadi shodana pranayama (alternate nostril breathing)
According to Dr Akhila, Pranayama is considered even a medicine, thanks to its healing powers. How to practice it right?
a. Hold your right hand in nasika mudra (Fold your index and middle fingers and close your right nostril with your right thumb
b. Inhale through the left nostril
c. Exhale through the right nostril 
d. Repeat the breathing pattern for three cycles

Pranayama by Sujithra
Nadishodana pranayama is even considered a medicine by many yoga practitioners. Photo: Manorama

2) Focusing on belly breathing
a. Place your right hand on your chest, left hand on your stomach. 
b. Observe whether you are breathing through your chest or stomach for a minute.
c. If stressed, you always breathe through your chest, and your stomach wouldn't be involved in the process. 
d. Consciously, try breathing involving your belly. This will reduce the intensity of your 'chest' breathing and help you achieve emotional balance, says Dr Akhila. 

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