Do you feel less sleepy in this lockdown? Try this 4:7:8 breathing technique tonight.

The coronavirus lockdown has changed our lives upside down. The sudden unprecedented changes, uncertainty and negativity have taken a toll on our mental health, which in turn has affected our sleeping pattern. And many of us are facing this issue of a proper 8 hours of sleep in this lockdown due to this upside down. Some are taking 4 hours of sleep only whereas others are taking 5-6 hours of sleep.
There are very few people who are taking proper 8-10 hours of sleep, I must say they are lucky ones.

In Digitrollz, we found one technique that will help you to have a good sleep ahead in the night.

The 4-7-8 breathing technique was developed by DR Andrew Weil. He described the pattern as a natural tranquilizer for the nervous system. The technique is based on an ancient yogic technique called pranayama, where one has to gain control over their breathing.

When the 4-7-8 breathing technique is done regularly, it makes one fall asleep in a shorter period of time by helping one relax deeply.

When we breathe deep, our body gets more oxygen. It also regulates the fight-or-flight response we feel when we are stressed. This is especially helpful for people who are experiencing sleeplessness due to anxiety. Due to lockdown, our thoughts and concerns are at a peak. When we focus on deep breathing our body get relaxed. You might not see the results at once, but with practice, you will surely get some positive results. Practice it twice a day to yield the best results.

Step 1: Rest the tip of your tongue against the roof of your mouth, right behind the front teeth. Your tongue should be in this position throughout the practice.

Step 2: Exhale through your mouth completely by making a whooshing sound.

Step 3: Close your lips and inhale silently through your nose as you count till four in your head.

Step 4: Hold your breath for seven seconds.

Step 5: Finally exhale for eight seconds, while making another whooshing sound.

You can try doing this four to five repetitions at one go and increase the number with time.