3. Now, increase your inhalation and exhalations to 5 counts each.

4. Next, increase your inhalations and exhalations to 6 counts each. This time try to become aware of your body - making sure you are not tensed.

5. Continue increasing your inhalations and exhalations all the way up to 9 counts. If you feel that this is causing you any stress, drop the count back down to a number that is comfortable for you.

6. Keep bringing your mind back to your body to check to see if there is any tension anywhere. If there is, try to relax that part of your body.

7. Whatever your final number of breaths is, continue breathing with long breaths for several rounds, then drop the counting and breathe naturally for 10 rounds.

What you should discover from this exercise, as well as with many of yoga's other breathing exercises, is the ability to relax your thoughts and to still your mind so that you are present in your body. In time, you will eventually gain mastery over your breath so that you will be able to call on your breath to still your mind in times of stress and tension.

About the Author

S.E. Odom is an independent publisher and co-founder of The Samadhi Group, Inc. Stop by TheSamadhiGroup.com today for abundant living tips and resources.