Diaphragmatic breathing (or belly breathing) is a foundational breath practice for parasympathetic activation and pain relief.

Here's how to do it:

1) Find a comfortable position – Sit or lie down.

2) Place one hand on your chest, and the other on your belly (just below the rib cage).

3) Inhale slowly through your nose and feel your belly rise.

4) Exhale slowly through your mouth (or nose, if preferred). Feel your belly fall as the diaphragm relaxes.

5) Repeat for 5–10 minutes, focusing on keeping your chest still and your belly moving.

6) You can start with 4–6 breaths per minute, which means around 10 seconds per full breath cycle.

Tips:

• Lay down and place hands on belly, or place a towel/yoga block on abdomen

Benefits:

• Increased lymph flow
• Activates parasympathetic nervous system