A Simple Technique to Increase Focus
Hello friend,
Last summer I was at a listening party for a new EP album when the artist asked us all to do something unusual. He asked us all to close our eyes and plant our feet firmly on the floor, and then led us through a repetition of 30 deep breaths; full, but not forceful. He advised us to expect some light-headedness, etc and told us that when we got to 30 we were to inhale and hold it as long as we could.
I got to 30 and held my breath comfortably longer than I expected. It was surprising. Even better was how stable and clear-headed I felt afterward. One would have expected the light-headedness to continue but instead the oxygen saturation increased my ability to focus on the music.
You can probably see where this is going; it made me think about how useful this exercise could be for introverted (or extroverted) entrepreneurs. We already practically have coffee IVs attached for wakefulness, but coffee doesn't do anything for when we face anxiety about a presentation, or need to calm our nerves to make a speech, a phone call, or even a decision about the next step.
HOW TO BREATH YOUR WAY TO EXCELLENCE
- Lay down, or sit with feet on floor (better option for those of us at desks)
- Inhale and exhale deeply for 30 times. Try not to breath forcefully.
- On the 30th inhale hold your breath for as long as it doesn't feel like you don't need to breath.
- Exhale. Repeat 2-3 more times if desired.
I'd love to hear if it worked for you. Since I learned this last summer I've used a basic version of this almost every time before going on stage to help with my church's worship team, almost always with good results. It helps to steady nerves - just be careful not to hyperventilate.
L. Raine
Breathing Technique Pioneered by Wim Hof
