There are several different approaches to learning self-hypnosis. You can read a book, listen to a CD, take a course, or have a personal coach. No matter which road you take, it will be easier for you to master self-hypnosis if you learn these three techniques first:

1. Focused breathing.
2. Visualization.
3. Meditation.

This article outlines the technique of focused breathing.

How many times a day are you aware of your breathing? If you’re like me, probably zero. It’s something we simply take for granted.

Our breathing reflects our physical and mental state. Are we relaxed? Stressed? Excited? Depressed?

When we rest or sleep, our breathing is slow and rhythmic. When we’re anxious, our breathing may be erratic, shallow, or we may simply hold our breath.

Not good!

Once you become aware of your breathing, you can start to control it. This is the kind of control that can reshape your life.

Focused breathing, also called the “cleansing breath,” is a powerful exercise for self-healing and for increasing energy. This type of breathing will ventilate and cleanse your lungs. It will stimulate your cells and tone your respiratory organs. It’s like clicking the “refresh” button on your entire body.

Try this simple exercise:

Inhale through your nose (from all the way down to an inch below your navel) as your lower abdomen expands naturally. Hold for three counts. As you gradually exhale through your mouth (like a slow whistle, rather than like blowing out a candle), notice how the tension and toxins leave your body. Your abdomen should contract (if you’re doing it right).

Take four more deep breaths, then repeat as often as you can throughout your busy day. Continue this exercise until it becomes a regular and natural part of your daily routine. Your body will love and reward you for it.

This breathing technique is an essential first step to learning self-hypnosis. It can also be used in the practice of meditation. Your reward for learning this technique? You will feel more relaxed and energized immediately (and don’t we all love “instant gratification?”).

The beauty of self-hypnosis is the ability you will have to transport yourself to a private island, beach, mountain, or wherever, any time, any place. You’re always in the driver’s seat.

If you can imagine it, you can experience it.

It is critically important for you to practice this exercise regularly. Once you raise the level of your breathing awareness, you will breathe correctly naturally.

Where to go from here:

• Read the next article in this series: “Self-Hypnosis and Visualization”
• Instant Self-Hypnosis
• Deep Relaxation
• “Free Your Breath, Free Your Life”
  
• “Natural Breathing”