entrating all of the attention on the regularly unnoticed processes of the body. Some helpful hints for the following breathing techniques I personally like to use come from A. Christensen: Always breathe in and out your nose; Focus your attention on the sound of the breath; Give yourself plenty of time to warm-up; Take time to notice how you are feeling; Don't neglect to find a comfortable seated position; Keep your arms away from your rib cage; Don't hold your breath at any time. (25-6) Now we are ready to familiarize ourselves with the breathing techniques. Relax!
             The arched breath technique is one of two breathing techniques I find helpful to jumpstart relaxation before any yoga activities. The purpose of the arched breath is to limber the muscles used for breathing and flex the spine. Begin by sitting on your feet with knees together, or take any other comfortably seated position. Place your hands on your knees. Start by breathing in (always through your nose, remember) and arching your back forward, stretching the entire spine from the tailbone to the back of the neck. Breathe out and round your back in the opposite direction, tucking in your head. Attempt to coordinate the breath with the movement so you are breathing the whole time you're moving. Breathe as fully and completely as possible.
             The next breathing exercise tends to take a little more work but is an invaluable tool for focus and relaxation. The complete breath will focus the mind and exercises all the respiratory
             muscles. Start by sitting in your most comfortable seated position. In this breath, you will use the muscles of your stomach, lower back, rib cage, and upper chest. Meanwhile your head, neck, and upper back should remain straight.
             First Stage: Begin by placing your hands on your stomach. Inhale deeply and push your belly forward, expanding it; exhale and tighten your stomach muscles, pushing the air out. Repeat this action several times. Observe...