Breathe with Zakim: Lion's Breath | Dana-Farber Zakim Center Remote Programming

Breathe with Zakim is a video series created by the Leonard P. Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies and Healthy Living at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. In this series, we teach you evidence-backed breathing techniques to activate your body's natural relaxation response, which may help reduce stress, improve focus, increase energy levels and contribute to overall well-being. Lion's Breath (Simhasana) is a powerful yogic breathing technique designed to release tension, especially in the face and chest, and to boost confidence and vitality. It’s often used in yoga practices to clear emotional or energetic blockages. Here's how to do it: 1) Come into a comfortable seated position 2) Place your hands on your knees, fingers spread wide. 3) Inhale deeply through your nose. 4) Exhale forcefully through your mouth. 5) Open your mouth wide. 6) Stick your tongue out and stretch it downward toward your chin. 7) Exhale with a strong "ha" sound from deep in your belly. 8) At the same time, open your eyes wide and gaze upward or at the space between your eyebrows (called "third eye"). 9) Repeat 3–5 times, or more if desired. Benefits: - Relieves tension in the face, neck, and chest - Stimulates the throat chakra - Helps release negative emotions like frustration and anger - Boosts confidence and vocal expression - Can energize and improve focus Learn more about the Zakim Center: https://www.dana-farber.org/patient-family/support-services/integrative-therapies Find the Breathe with Zakim video playlist here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPLXayOtubE1-dssNh6z2R39ZFDptBrkI