Pay Attention to the Bliss Breath
Updated: Oct 8, 2022
Naturally longer and fuller, these breaths are effortlessly lighter and more smooth and steady than other breaths. How do you experience more bliss breaths?
Have you ever paid close attention to your breath at the exact moment you relax into or exit a super grounding, restorative yoga pose or meditation? In these moments, I have experienced what feels like a whole-body sigh of relief, an effortless lightness—bliss if only for a beat. I call these bliss breaths, and they can be experienced at any time, such as the moment your partner reaches out to hold your hand or your little one wraps their arms around you for a hug.
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Bliss breaths are naturally longer than other breaths, and their quality and texture are smooth, steady and at ease. When you notice them, bliss breaths signal your own awareness of your own relaxation.
I created a simple practice to help you get in tune with your bliss breaths—first so you can notice when they happen, and second, so you can notice how they make you feel.
The ideas in the list below are times where it is highly possible you may experience a bliss breath.
Practice It: Pay Attention to Your Bliss Breaths Today
Notice the first breath after finishing a satisfying meal.
Notice the first breath when you sit to journal or read something you’re excited to read.
Notice the first breath when you hug someone.
Notice the first breath when you settle into a restorative yoga pose.
Notice the first breath after you exit a meditation or breathing exercise.
Notice the first breath when you sink into your bed at night.
What do you observe with your bliss breaths? Where do you feel them in the body and how do they make you feel?
Try this practice again tomorrow and see if there are other moments throughout the day where you experience bliss breaths.
Every bliss breath is an opportunity to pause and notice, and learn more about what helps and what happens when you relax.
Note that this website is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Speak with your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine or wellness plan.