What Is Numbered Breathing?
Numbered Breathing is a breathwork exercise that helps you gain control over your breathing pattern and increase lung capacity.
This technique requires you to:
- Inhale and exhale in a 1:1 ratio
- Gradually increase the counts with each consecutive cycle
It is often recommended for singers and athletes because it enhances breath control and endurance.
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Benefits of Numbered Breathing
- Improves lung capacity
- Trains rhythm and control of breathing
- Helps singers sustain notes
- Supports athletes in stamina and focus
- Brings mindfulness into breath awareness
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How to Practice Numbered (or Labelled) Breathing
Follow these steps:
- Stand still and close your eyes.
- Inhale deeply until your lungs are completely full.
- Exhale fully until all the air is released.
- With eyes closed, inhale again while picturing the number 1.
- Hold your breath for a few seconds, then exhale completely.
- Inhale again while picturing the number 2.
- Hold your breath, silently count to 3, then release.
- Continue the cycle, picturing the next number each time, until you reach 8.
- If comfortable, go beyond 8 counts for a deeper practice.
Tip: You can also label your breath instead of numbering — mentally saying “in” for inhalation and “out” for exhalation.
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Source
[Healthline – Diaphragmatic Breathing](https://www.healthline.com/health/diaphragmatic-breathing#steps-to-do)
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Health • Performance • Experience • Breathwork
By Manusha Reddy