Don't Wait to Exhale

Thomas Fortel teaches people how to breathe. Surprisingly, nearly all of us would benefit from some instruction.

"The average person breathes in short, shallow, rapid breaths, which corresponds to a state of mind," says Fortel, a Big Sur, Calif., yoga instructor. "In praniyama (breathing) classes, you slow and lengthen your breath, which has a calming effect on the nervous system and the mind."

You don't need to commit to a two-hour praniyama class to benefit from conscious breathing. Even 10 minutes of measured, deep inhalations followed by forceful exhalations can flush out tension and calm you.

Sit in a quiet place and inhale while silently and slowly counting to three. Then exhale for three counts. Increase inhalation and exhalation to four slow counts.

Continue up to a count of eight, focusing on even and deep breathing. Envision absorbing nature's energy during inhalations and then breathing light into the world as you exhale.

Regular massage therapy relieves tension in the chest and shoulders, which can improve breathing. And use these techniques during your massage to get the best relaxation benefits.