Lay down on the job

Read below for an exercise that's so easy you'll be practising it whilst lying down.

It's designed to help you be aware of how you breathe and what your breathing feels like in this often used natural position. You'll be laying down as if you are preparing for sleep or taking a 'nap'.

Remember, it's likely that you use a significant proportion of your 24 hour day sleeping. Most people get good sleep, which usually means they feel rested and quickly become alert after they have awoken. Some people don't rest so easily and one of the reasons amongst potentially many, may be their quality of breathing and relaxation.

• Lie flat on your back on a floor.

• Relax your body, allowing your arms and legs to spread or 'flop' out in a relaxed manner. You will know what positions for your arms and legs are most comfortable.

• Now, be aware of your breathing. Let your body breathe all by itself. You've been doing this all your life, so you're already skilled in letting this happen.

• I expect you're noticing that you're stomach is rising and falling with every inhalation and exhalation. How does this feel? Natural? Healthy? Relaxing? I certainly hope so.

• What are you noticing about your breathing?

• For those of you requiring more comfort whilst lying on the floor, please place a light pillow under your head and under your knees or wherever best to suit you. Be as comfortable as you want because this may help you notice more from this exercise.

• You may prefer to experiment with using cushions and without.

• Now, lay flat upon your back on your bed, head upon a pillow if you normally use one. Repeat the same exercise. How does this compare to your experience with the previous exercise?
  

It may be that your breathing naturally from your stomach and less from your chest. How does that feel? As you are comfortable, feel free to lay there and continue breathing. I realise you've probably decided to do that anyway.