Feeling tired? Overwhelmed? Stressed? Here’s our festive gift to you…

As soon as I chat to breathwork practitioner and founder of the Breathing Practice, Eleanor Curtis, over Zoom, I instantly feel tranquil. 

She is telling me about the joy of finding calm through breathwork and her warm, soothing voice has already won me over. We haven’t even started a breathing practice. 

Eleanor, a lawyer, author, photographer and freediver, has found solace and strength in the power of breath. After years of navigating the fast-paced world of law, she turned her attention to the transformative effects of breathwork. She founded The Breathing Practice in 2022, a platform dedicated to teaching breathwork techniques and sharing the benefits of this ancient practice to reduce anxiety, calm the mind, and boost energy levels.

What is breathwork?

“Breathwork is a powerful tool that can help us manage stress, improve our mental and physical health, and enhance our overall well-being,” Eleanor explains. “By simply focusing on our breath, we can calm our minds, reduce anxiety and increase our energy levels.” 

Finding inner peace during the Christmas chaos may feel impossible. You’re not alone – the expense, expectations, loneliness and pressure to enjoy the season affects all of us in some way.         

“Breathing is something we all do, all day, every day. Yet, most of the time, we do it unconsciously. By focusing on our breath, we can improve our well-being,” she adds. 

For the best results, Eleanor suggests finding a quiet and safe place, preferably sitting down comfortably for the duration of the breathing practice. As you start the practice, try to relax all the muscles in the face especially around the eyes and the lower jaw – this helps with soft and gentle breathing.

Listen to Eleanor’s three-minute boxed breathwork exercise: Finding Calm in Tricky Moments

It involves inhaling, holding, exhaling, and holding for equal counts. This simple exercise can quickly bring your mind and body into a state of calm. 

Take a pause and take a breath: 

1. Sit comfortably and with a straight back if possible. Take your time to sit comfortably, using cushions or yoga blocks for support if needed;
2. Close your eyes. Relax all the muscles in the face, especially the jaw.?Bring a smile behind the eyes to help soften the muscles around the eyes;
3. Take your attention inwards as though observing your breathing for the very first time;?
4. Breathe gently and softly, through the nose, relaxing the face, relaxing the jaw;?
5. Slowly start to lengthen the inhale. Then slowly start lengthening the exhale. 3 breaths at a time;?
6. Repeat – lengthening the inhale and the exhale 3 breaths at a time. Repeat;?
7. With every breath – soften the breath, quieten the mind, and open the heart.?  

“Be kind to yourself”

Mindfulness can also help people stay present and enjoy the holiday season, advises Dr Sula Windgassen, health psychologist and director of The Health Psychologist. She has extensive clinical practice delivering psychological support to people with gut disorders and consulting with companies on psychological approaches to gut health. 

Her top tips on how to reset during the festive period? 

“Limit screen and phone time to allow your brain to rest and rejuvenate, and ensure regular exposure to natural light and fresh air.” 

She adds: “Try to practice self-compassion and be kind to yourself. Many of us set unrealistic expectations and strive for perfection, which can lead to chronic stress. Instead, practice self-compassion by acknowledging your limitations and accepting your imperfections. Set realistic goals, celebrate your accomplishments, and forgive yourself for mistakes. By being gentle with yourself, you can reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.” 

As we navigate the holiday season, let’s remember to prioritise our well-being. By bringing simple breathwork techniques into our daily routine, we can find our calm amidst the chaos and enjoy a more peaceful and fulfilling holiday season. 

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