1. Diaphragmatic Breathing

Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing, helps you engage your diaphragm properly. A 2020 meta-analysis indicates that this type of breathing is especially beneficial for individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart problems, or cancer.

Additionally, it can help reduce stress and manage challenges related to conditions like eating disorders, constipation, high blood pressure, and migraine headaches.

Practice diaphragmatic breathing for 5 to 10 minutes, 3 to 4 times daily. While it may feel tiring initially, the technique should become easier and more natural over time.

• Lie on your back with your knees slightly bent and your head on a pillow. You can place a pillow under your knees for added support.
• Place one hand on your upper chest and the other below your rib cage, so you can feel the movement of your diaphragm.
• Slowly inhale through your nose, feeling your stomach press against your hand while keeping your other hand as still as possible.
• Exhale using pursed lips while tightening your abdominal muscles, ensuring your upper hand remains completely still.

To make the exercise more challenging, you can place a book on your abdomen. Once you’ve mastered belly breathing lying down, you can try it while sitting in a chair and eventually incorporate it into your daily activities.

2. Pursed Lip Breathing

Pursed lip breathing is a straightforward technique designed to slow down your breathing by applying deliberate effort with each breath. You can practice this technique anytime, and it is particularly beneficial during activities like bending, lifting, or climbing stairs.

Begin by practising pursed lip breathing 4 to 5 times a day to learn the correct breathing pattern.

• Relax your neck and shoulders.
• Keep your mouth closed and inhale slowly through your nose for a count of 2.
• Pucker or purse your lips as if you’re going to whistle.
• Exhale slowly by blowing air through your pursed lips for a count of 4.

3. Breath Focus Technique

The breath focus technique combines deep breathing with imagery or focus words and phrases. Choose a focus word that makes you feel relaxed, happy, or neutral—words like “peace,” “let go,” or “relax” work well.

As you develop your practice, start with a 10-minute session and gradually increase the duration until you reach at least 20 minutes.

• Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
• Bring your awareness to your breathing without trying to alter it.
• Alternate between normal and deep breaths a few times, observing the differences between them. Notice how your abdomen expands with deep inhalations and how shallow breathing feels in comparison.
• Practice deep breathing for a few minutes.
• Place one hand below your belly button, keeping your belly relaxed, and observe how it rises with each inhale and falls with each exhale. Let out a loud sigh with each exhale.
• Begin the breath focus practice by combining deep breathing with imagery and a focus word or phrase that supports relaxation. Imagine the air you inhale brings waves of peace and calm throughout your body, mentally saying, “Inhaling peace and calm.”
• As you exhale, imagine the air washing away tension and anxiety, mentally saying, “Exhaling tension and anxiety.”

4. Lion’s Breath

Lion’s breath is an invigorating yoga breathing practice that can help release tension in your jaw and facial muscles. Also known as Lion’s Pose or Simhasana in Sanskrit, this technique is a great way to energize your body and mind.

• Sit in a comfortable position, either back on your heels or with your legs crossed.
• Press your palms against your knees with your fingers spread wide.
• Inhale deeply through your nose while opening your eyes wide.
• At the same time, open your mouth wide, stick out your tongue, and aim the tip towards your chin.
• Contract the muscles at the front of your throat as you exhale forcefully through your mouth, making a long “haaa” sound.
• You can direct your gaze to the space between your eyebrows or the tip of your nose.
• Repeat this breath 2 to 3 times.

5. Equal Breathing

Equal breathing, or Sama Vritti in Sanskrit, involves making your inhales and exhales of equal duration. This technique helps bring balance and steadiness to your breath, improving mental well-being and increasing oxygen supply to the brain and lungs.

Find a breath length that is neither too easy nor too difficult, typically between 3 and 5 counts, and maintain it throughout the practice.

• Sit in a comfortable position.
• Inhale and exhale through your nose.
• Count during each inhale and exhale to ensure they are of equal length. Alternatively, you can repeat a word or short phrase during each breath.
• If comfortable, add a slight pause after each inhale and exhale for breath retention.
• Continue this breathing pattern for at least 5 minutes.

Once you become accustomed to equal breathing while seated, try incorporating it into your yoga practice or daily activities.

6. Alternate Nostril Breathing

Alternate nostril breathing, known as Nadi Shodhana Pranayama in Sanskrit, is a relaxing breathing practice that enhances cardiovascular function and lowers heart rate.

This technique is most effective when practised on an empty stomach. If you are feeling sick or congested, it’s best to avoid this practice. Keep your breathing smooth and even throughout the session.

• Sit comfortably in a seated position.
• Lift your right hand toward your nose, pressing your first and middle fingers down toward your palm while keeping the other fingers extended.
• After an exhale, gently close your right nostril with your right thumb.
• Inhale slowly through your left nostril, then close it with your right pinky and ring fingers.
• Release your thumb to open your right nostril and exhale through it.
• Inhale through your right nostril, then close it.
• Release your fingers to open your left nostril and exhale through this side.

This sequence completes one cycle. Continue this breathing pattern for up to 5 minutes, finishing your session with an exhale on the left side.

7. Resonant/Coherent Breathing

Resonant breathing, also known as coherent breathing, involves breathing at a rate of 5 full breaths per minute. This rate maximizes heart rate variability (HRV), reduces stress, and can alleviate symptoms of depression when combined with Iyengar yoga, according to a 2017 study.

• Inhale for a count of 5.
• Exhale for a count of 5.
• Continue this breathing pattern for at least a few minutes.

8. Deep Breathing

Deep breathing helps relieve shortness of breath by preventing air from getting trapped in your lungs and allowing you to breathe in fresh air. This technique can help you feel more relaxed and centred.

• While standing or sitting, draw your elbows back slightly to allow your chest to expand.
• Take a deep inhalation through your nose.
• Hold your breath for a count of 5.
• Slowly exhale through your nose.

9. Humming Bee Breath

Humming Bee Breath, a yoga breathing technique, creates a soothing sensation that brings instant calm, particularly around your forehead. This practice can help alleviate frustration, anxiety, and anger.

Research suggests that it may help lower your heart rate, improve mental clarity, and reduce stress.

• Sit comfortably with your eyes closed and your face relaxed.
• Place your first fingers on the tragus cartilage, which partially covers your ear canal.
• Inhale deeply, then gently press your fingers into the cartilage as you exhale.
• Keep your mouth closed and produce a loud humming sound.
• Continue this practice for as long as it feels comfortable.

10. Sitali Breath

Sitali breath is a yoga breathing practice that helps cool your body and relax your mind. While practising Sitali breath, slightly extend your breaths without forcing them. Since you inhale through your mouth, choose a place free of allergens and air pollution for this practice.

• Sit in a comfortable position.
• Stick out your tongue and curl the outer edges together. If your tongue doesn’t curl, you can purse your lips.
• Inhale through your mouth.
• Exhale through your nose.
• Continue breathing this way for up to 5 minutes.

Small locks, also known as micro locs or sister locks, offer a versatile and low-maintenance hairstyle that’s gaining popularity among natural hair enthusiasts. These small, uniform locks provide endless styling possibilities while allowing you to embrace your natural hair texture. In this article, we’ll explore how to style small locks in 13 stunning ways. This will give you plenty of inspiration for your next hair adventure.

1. The Classic Free-Flowing Lock

Sometimes, the simplest style is the most beautiful. Letting your small locks flow freely showcases their natural beauty and movement. This low-effort style works well for any occasion, from casual outings to formal events. To achieve this look, simply wash and condition your locks, then allow them to air dry.

Once dry, gently separate any locks that may have joined together during the drying process. For added shine and moisture, apply a light oil or loc cream throughout your hair. This classic style not only looks effortlessly chic but also gives your scalp and locks a chance to breathe.

2. Elegant Updo

For a more sophisticated look, try an elegant updo with your small locks. Start by gathering your locks at the crown of your head and securing them with a hair tie. Then, twist the remaining locks and wrap them around the base of the ponytail, creating a bun.

Secure the bun with bobby pins, tucking in any stray ends. For a more polished finish, use a small amount of edge control gel to smooth down any flyaways around your hairline. This versatile style works well for both professional settings and special occasions.

3. Half-Up, Half-Down

The half-up, half-down style combines the best of both worlds, allowing you to showcase the length of your locks while keeping hair away from your face. To create this look, part your hair horizontally from ear to ear.

Gather the top section and secure it with a hair tie or decorative clip. Leave the bottom section loose. You can further enhance this style by adding braids or twists to the top section before securing it. This playful yet elegant style is perfect for everyday wear or casual events.

4. Braided Crown

A braided crown adds a touch of bohemian flair to your small locks. To achieve this look, part your hair down the middle from the forehead to the nape. Starting at your forehead, begin braiding each side, incorporating more locks as you go.

Continue braiding around your head until you reach the opposite side. Secure the ends with small clear elastic bands and pin the braids in place. Tuck any loose ends underneath the braids. This romantic style is ideal for summer days or festival season.

5. Loc Ponytail

The loc ponytail is a quick and easy style that works well for both casual and formal occasions. Simply gather your locks at the desired height (high, middle, or low) and secure them with a hair tie. For added flair, wrap a small section of locks around the hair tie to conceal it.

You can also accessorize your ponytail with colourful wraps, cuffs, or beads. This versatile style keeps your locks neat while showcasing their length and texture.

6. Side-Swept Locks

For a glamorous, red-carpet-worthy look, try side-swept locks. Create a deep side part and use bobby pins to secure most of your locks to one side of your head. Allow the remaining locks to cascade over your shoulder.

This asymmetrical style adds drama and sophistication to your appearance. It’s particularly striking for special events or nights out.

7. Loc Braid-Out

A loc braid-out adds texture and volume to your small locks. Start with damp locks and divide your hair into several sections. Braid each section, ensuring you braid to the ends. Allow the braids to dry completely, either naturally or with a hooded dryer.

Once dry, carefully unravel the braids. The result is a head full of voluminous, wavy locks. This style is perfect for adding body and movement to your locks.

8. Bantu Knots

Bantu knots offer a fun and protective style for your small locks. Divide your hair into sections, then twist each section tightly and wrap it around itself to form a knot.

Secure with bobby pins if needed. You can create as many or as few knots as you like, depending on your desired look. This style not only looks striking but also helps protect your locks while you sleep.

9. Loc Mohawk

For those feeling bold, a loc mohawk makes a powerful statement. Start by creating two French braids on either side of your head, incorporating locks as you go. Secure the ends of the braids at the nape of your neck.

Leave the centre section of locks free, styling them upward for height. Use hairspray or loc gel to help the centre locks stand up if needed. This edgy style is sure to turn heads.

10. Accessorized Locks

Sometimes, all you need to elevate your small locks is the right accessory. Experiment with colourful wraps, beads, cuffs, or even fresh flowers woven throughout your locks.

You can add these accents to a few locks for a subtle touch or go all out for a more dramatic look. Accessorizing your locks is an excellent way to express your personal style and add visual interest to your hair.

11. Loc Bun

A loc bun is a classic, polished style that works well for any occasion. Gather your locks into a high ponytail, then twist the length of the ponytail and wrap it around the base to form a bun.

Secure with bobby pins. For a more relaxed look, leave a few face-framing locks loose. This timeless style keeps your locks neat while exuding elegance.

12. Faux Undercut

Create the illusion of an undercut without committing to the cut. Part your hair horizontally just above your ears and secure the top section out of the way. Braid the bottom section close to the scalp, either in cornrows or a single French braid.

Let the top section down, covering the braided part. This edgy style offers the best of both worlds – the look of an undercut with the ability to change it up when desired.

13. Twisted Updo

For a romantic, whimsical look, try a twisted updo. Start by creating two-strand twists throughout your locks. Then, gather the twists and pin them up in a loose, asymmetrical bun, allowing some twists to fall freely for a soft, ethereal effect. This dreamy style is perfect for weddings, proms, or any special occasion where you want to feel like a fairytale princess.

Conclusively, small locks offer a world of styling possibilities. Whether you prefer sleek and sophisticated looks or bold and edgy styles, there’s a perfect option for every occasion and personal taste. You can experiment with different techniques and accessories to find the styles that make you feel most confident and beautiful.

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