Alternate Nostril Breathing: Uses, Benefits, & How to Practice

In this practice

Key teachings

• Balancing the nervous system through breath control
• Cultivating mindfulness and present moment awareness
• Utilizing breathwork to manage anxiety

Ideal for

• Individuals seeking anxiety relief
• Beginners to breathwork and pranayama
• Anyone looking to calm their mind and improve focus

Lesson

Instructions

What are the benefits of alternate nostril breathing for anxiety? How can alternate nostril breathing get incorporated into your every day routine? Licensed therapist Gabrielle Juliano-Villani goes over the benefits of using alternate nostril breathing along with demonstrating exactly how to do this breathing technique.

0:00 Intro by Licensed Therapist 0:14 What is Alternate Nostril Breathing? 1:00 Types of Alternate Nostril Breathing 1:48 What is Mindfulness? 2:14 Benefits of Alternate Nostril Breathing 3:37 How to do Alternate Nostril Breathing

Everyone deserves to experience the benefits of improved mental health and emotional wellness. If you're ready to take the next step in your journey, here are some helpful resources from Choosing Therapy.

Video by: Gabrielle Juliano-Villani, LCSW From the article: Alternate Nostril Breathing: Uses, Benefits, & How to Practice

Written by: Gabrielle Juliano-Villani, LCSW

Reviewed by: Kristen Fuller, MD

Published: March 22, 2023

Steps

• Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana Pranayama)
• Specific hand mudras for nostril occlusion

Benefits

• Reduces anxiety and stress
• Promotes mental calmness and clarity
• Balances the left and right hemispheres of the brain
• Improves focus and concentration
• Enhances emotional regulation