Chapter 32 - Deep Breathing

Chapter 32 describes the process of the deep breathing technique. This technique can be linked to yoga and the concept of by controlling one’s breathing, you can control your life energy. When implementing this technique, the exhalation process should be longer than the inhalation and the client should make sure to breathe from the abdomen. The client should make his/her self as comfortable as possible, preferably lying on their back to begin this technique. The book briefly describes this technique being used with a client in which the counselor talks the client through the technique and then assigns this as homework. This technique can be used in a variety of situations and in a variety of ways. For instance it can be used to control anxiety or to manage stress. This can also be used to reduce anxiety disorders, panic attacks, depression, irritability, headaches, anger, etc. I believe that this technique is incredibly useful and can be used as frequently as needed. It certainly helps to put clients at ease and help them to be able to deal with a situation that might be causing them a great deal of stress much more effectively.