The diaphragm helps move oxygen throughout the body.  It is a strong, thin muscle that partitions the chest from the abdomen.  Breathing deeply helps your energy level, the effectiveness of your hormone system and aids in weight management.  Here are two exercises to train yourself to breathe more deeply.

(1) Firmly place your left hand under the center of your rib cage.
(2) Place your right hand on top of your left hand.
(3)  With your hands flat, pull your elbows close to your body so you are hugging your midsection.
(4) Inhale deeply and push your body toward your hands while your hands push back against your body.
(5) Hold your breath and push hard.  The longer you hold and push, the better.
(6) Release your breath naturally and relax your hands.
(7) Do this exercise two more times.

Here is another exercise to help deepen your breath.
(1) Bend forward at the waist.
(2) Place your hands on your knees.
(3) Take a fast, deep breath in through your nose.
(4)  As you take in the breath, round your back and squeeze your stomach in toward your spine.
(5) Force your breath out through your mouth.
(6) When all your breath is out, suck your stomach in tight and hold without breathing until you want to catch your breath.
(7) Release and your lungs will fill with air.
Source: Energy Medicine for Women by  Donna Eden.
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