Breathing for a Better Sleep


Short of a good night’s sleep, the best way to look well rested is through diaphragmatic breathing.  Gay Hendricks, Ph.D., author of Conscious Breathing, recommends this regimen:  Lie on your back with knees bent, feet flat on the floor and hands at your sides.  Slowly breathe in through your nose, arching the small of your back, letting the air fill your lungs.  As you inhale, your stomach should expand outward.  When you’re ready, slowly release the air through your nose.  Press the small of your back against the floor and feel your stomach flatten.