A breath token is a breathing exploration that I develop for friends & clients and send out as a gift.
Rolling the back of the head
Breathing is often employed for relaxation. I use the verb „employ“ because we use our will in telling our breathing what to do. This is not only unnecessary but also interferes with the natural breath rhythm. The nature of breathing is reactive and adaptive. Gentle stroking, or rolling movements, for example, can bring about relaxation more efficiently, letting breathing do what it does best: react and adapt.
Let‘s try it out with a rolling movement of the head. We bring our attention to the back of the head and gently roll the head from side to side, as if rolling it against something soft in the background. If there is an impulse of the lower jaw to release, let’s follow it. If there is an impulse from the eyes to go with the movement, let’s follow it.
We often forget the back of our body and the relation of the head and neck to space. This small, simple movement creates a sense of connection across the whole length of the body, especially the back.
Benefits I experienced were:
Full and deep breathing in the whole torso
Sensation of the length of the body, from head to feet
Slowing of the breath
Relaxation
Confidence through an increased spatial awareness
There are surely other benefits for you to discover. If you have any questions or feedback please contact me.