Optimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition

3011: Square Breath to Balance Your Mind and Body by Kate Hesse of Nourish Nest Breathe on Rest and Recovery

4 snips
Jun 12, 2025
Explore the calming effects of the Square Breath technique, which balances inhalation and exhalation to shift the body from stress to relaxation. Learn how this practice can enhance mental clarity and emotional resilience during life's transitions. Kate Hesse shares personal insights that highlight the importance of feeling safe in moments of uncertainty. Discover the profound impact focused breathing can have on achieving a state of rest and digest.
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INSIGHT

Square Breath Balances Nervous System

  • Square breath balances the body with equal inhales and exhales plus breath retention.
  • This practice shifts the nervous system from stress (sympathetic) to rest and recovery (parasympathetic).
ANECDOTE

Breathwork Eases Life Transitions

  • Kate Hess uses square breath to find comfort in life's scary transitions.
  • Exploring breath retention spaces on the mat shows her safety during uncertainty.
ADVICE

How to Practice Square Breath

  • To practice square breath, find equal counts for inhale, retention, exhale, and hold out.
  • Adjust counts for comfort; no strain or breath holding if lightheaded occurs; try 3-5 minutes.
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