“As the necessary tectonic shifts are happening in our world and as we are leaning into difficult, complex and sharp yet necessary conversations, we must also be active about our self care,” the star wrote on Instagram.
In an IGTV video, the Black-ish actress shared three “simple and gentle” breathing exercises. Sit in a chair and first, “Close your eyes and allow your body to soften,” she says in between deep breaths. Ross recognises that this might trigger feelings of fear and anxiety and suggests you do it at your own pace.
The second exercise, after softening your body, is to “allow your body to feel the weight of your body.” Ross says to allow your weight be supported by the ground beneath you and let it take your weight.
And finally, open your eyes and draw in a lot of air while standing, laying down or sitting. “Let your body fill up with air,” she proposes. Long inhale. Loud exhale.
See her IGTV below.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Tracee Ellis Ross (@traceeellisross) on
When it comes to relaxation, breathing exercises are great. Michigan Medicine says that when you breathe deeply, it sends a message to your brain to calm down and relax. There are many breathing techniques for you to try such as Lion’s Breath, Diaphragmatic Breathing, and many others. The NHS also recommends this breathing technique for stress, anxiety and panic.
Meditation apps such as The Mindfulness App, Headspace and Calm also offer different methods to help you relax, reflect and stay calm.
Have you tried any of these exercises? How helpful were they? Share in the comments!
