For You

A Lesson for Breathing

Ira Feinstein, MFA

Breathe deeply. These two words sounded so different, so simple a couple of weeks ago. Before the pandemic, I'd take a deep breath whenever I was stressed, like when I got stuck in Chicago traffic or picked the wrong line at the grocery store. These days if I have to go to the grocery store, I don't want to breathe at all. I hold my breath as I walk down the aisles, grab what I can, and pray that I don't breathe in the virus. Now, breathing doesn't feel safe.

The thing is, in order to control our anxiety and keep our immune system strong, we must breathe... and breathe well. We need to inhale oxygen deeply and exhale carbon dioxide fully. This is a good time for us to strengthen our lungs and support our immune system.

This 39-minute Feldenkrais exercise taught by David will melt away tension and help you to return to a healthy, relaxed, parasympathetic state. It will improve your breathing and help to balance your nervous system in this difficult time. Find a quiet spot where you can lie down comfortably. (Your bed is ok, but without pillows, please) Relax, and listen as the teacher guides you. Do the movements very slowly, with as little muscular tension and effort as possible. Rest for a few seconds between each movement. Soon, you will be breathing better.

If you find this lesson helpful, you can find more free lessons in our lesson library and on your YouTube page. If this is your first experience with the Feldenkrais Method, please read our User's Guide to ensure you get the most out of your lessons.

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