3 Breathing Exercises To Help You Realign

While many exercise classes focus on physical movement, integrating intentional breathing techniques can amplify your mind-body alignment and recovery. These exercises are perfect for pairing with yoga, Pilates, or post-workout cooldowns in your favorite exercise classes to enhance relaxation and focus.

Equal Breathing

How it complements exercise classes: Ideal for balancing energy after high-intensity workouts or calming nerves before a session.

Steps:

1. Lie or sit comfortably (a common starting position in many exercise classes).

2. Close your eyes and notice your natural breath.

3. After 4–5 natural breaths, inhale slowly to a count of four.

4. Pause, then exhale to a count of four. Repeat for 5–10 cycles.

Pro Tip: Use this technique during rest intervals in exercise classes to maintain steady focus.

Belly Breathing

How it complements mobility classes: Strengthens diaphragm engagement, crucial for endurance in cardio or strength-training sessions.

Steps:

1. Sit or lie comfortably (as you would in a yoga class).

2. Place one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest.

3. Inhale deeply through your nose, expanding your belly.

4. Exhale through pursed lips, engaging your core (similar to Pilates breathwork).

Pro Tip: Practice before exercise classes to prime your body for efficient oxygen flow.

4-7-8 Breathing

How it complements exercise classes: Perfect for post-class relaxation or resetting during breaks.

Steps:

1. Sit comfortably (try this seated pose used in meditation classes).

2. Place your tongue behind your upper front teeth.

3. Inhale quietly through your nose for 4 counts.

4. Hold for 7 counts.

5. Exhale audibly through your mouth for 8 counts. Repeat 4 times.

Pro Tip: Share this method with your exercise class instructor for group cooldowns!

Why Pair Breathing with Exercise Classes?

Breathing exercises are a natural extension of exercise classes, helping you:

• Recover faster: Oxygenate muscles after intense workouts.

• Improve form: Steady breathing enhances movement precision.

• Reduce stress: Counteract the adrenaline spike from high-energy sessions.

Next time you join a fitness or wellness exercise class, layer these techniques into your routine for total mind-body alignment.