How Ujjayi Breathing Supports Your Nervous System and Personal Healing:
I want to share something close to my heart today—something that continues to anchor me through joy, grief, clarity, and chaos. My breath.
This has become one of my most intimate and transformative self-care practices. Not just during meditation. It supports me in the tiny, in-between moments—while I’m driving, washing dishes, prepping for my day or simply witnessing an emotion rise in real time.
How My Breath Became My Anchor
There was a time when I didn’t even notice my breath. I was moving fast, caught in reaction, and rarely dropping into the truth of my body. Through years of practicing somatic healing, yoga, Reiki, and deep self-inquiry, I’ve come to understand something powerful:
My breath has always been there—waiting to hold me, regulate me, and guide me back to myself.
Now, breathwork is a daily non-negotiable. It helps me shift stuck energy, center and ground myself, soothe my nervous system, and most importantly, remember my power.
Why It’s So Transformational
Your breath is more than just oxygen—it’s sacred life force energy. It’s the bridge between your body, mind, and spirit. Whether you’re new to breathwork or have been practicing yoga or somatics for a while, learning to work with your breath is one of the most accessible and empowering tools for nervous system regulation and emotional resilience.
When your breath is shallow or disconnected, you may feel anxious, overwhelmed, or out of sync with yourself. But when you consciously engage the breath, you begin to regulate your energy and return to the present moment. Breath and the nervous system are deeply connected. When we experience an emotional shift, the breath is often the first thing to change—and also the first thing that can bring us back into balance.
What Is Ujjayi Breathing? (And Why I Love It)
One of my favorite breathwork techniques is called Ujjayi breathing, also known as Ocean Breath.
Ujjayi is a foundational breath in yoga that soothes the nervous system, deepens presence, and creates an inner sense of calm. It’s a practice I return to again and again—especially when I need grounding, clarity, or warmth.
How to Practice:
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🌬️ Inhale slowly through your nose, slightly constricting the back of your throat (imagine you’re fogging up a mirror, but with your mouth closed).
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🌬️ Exhale through your nose with the same gentle constriction, creating a soft, audible sound.
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🌊 The breath should sound like a subtle ocean wave—soothing and rhythmic.
Benefits:
✨ Calms and steadies the mind
✨ Anchors the body in the present moment
✨ Supports nervous system regulation
✨ Energizes the body from within
✨ Enhances focus, clarity, and emotional stability
✨ Activates the parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) system
You can practice this breathwork technique for just 5–10 minutes a day. Close your eyes, let your shoulders drop, soften your belly, and let yourself be held by the rhythm of your breath.
👉 Click here to practice Ujjayi breathing with me on YouTube.
Create a Personalized Self-Care Ritual with Breathwork
The beauty of Ujjayi is that it can be done anytime, anywhere—making it an easy yet powerful way to personalize your self-care and deepen your relationship with your body and nervous system.
Whether you’re navigating daily stress or simply want to feel more connected and empowered, this breathwork ritual is here to support you. You don’t need to wait for the “right” moment. Your breath is the invitation. Your presence is the medicine.
Upcoming Healing Circle — Join Me In Person 💛
🌿 Local Healing Circle Gathering
📅 Date: Sunday, April 27
🕛 Time: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
📍 Location: 33 W Higgins Rd, Suite 520, South Barrington, IL
💗 A sacred space for breath, nervous system healing, and heart-centered connection.
👉 Sign up here to reserve your spot.
Final Thoughts: From My Heart to Yours
This practice has brought so much peace and empowerment into my healing journey—and it’s an honor to share it with you. Whether you’re new to self-regulation practices or deepening an existing one, I hope this breath becomes a trusted ally for you.
Until then, take a deep breath.
Hold it gently.
And exhale into who you are becoming.
With Gratitude, Alicia
