Breathwork, as in “the intentional work of breathing”, may be the simplest health tip ever. Just like meditation and drinking enough water, setting aside time to breathe deeply can transform your health so easily and effectively that, at first, it almost seems absurd.

No one knows this better than our gal, breathwork healer, Ashley Neese. Ashley has made it her mission to help clients and workshop-goers get in touch with themselves on a deeper emotional and psychological level through the power of breathing. We’ve become staunch advocates for regular breathwork exercises over the past few months (check out this fascinating Ayurvedic method) after experiences like this workshop deep inside Topanga Canyon with Ashley and the ladies of Mercado Sagrado.

Co-host, Nitsa Citrine of Sun Potion, whipped up tonic after tonic as guests sat outside the tiny Mercado bungalow high up in the canyon watching the sunset. We’re sharing all the recipes below, along with Ashley’s practice. Whip up one or two of these tonics and treat yourself to the simplest wellness-uplift you’ll ever experience – enjoy but watch out, it might become a habit.

We loved this workshop so much, we’re throwing one of our own. Keep an eye on this space for details and let us know what you think in the meantime! Grab more TCM recipes from Ashley and Nitsa here. 

Ashley’s Calming Breathwork Practice

Extending your exhalation a few counts longer than your inhale is a fast way to ground your energy and regulate stress. The longer your exhale, the more your mind will relax. This calming breathwork is an excellent tool for harmonizing emotions, reducing anxiety and quieting a busy mind. This is an effective practice to try before bed if you have trouble falling asleep

– Take a comfortable seat or lie down.
– Make sure that your spine is straight.
– Gently close your eyes.
– Take a long, deep breath through your nose.
– Exhale out of your nose three counts longer than your inhalation.
– Repeat for 5 minutes.

Post-Practice Tonics 

Notice how peaceful and calm you feel after the practice. Continue the process of internal nourishment with these simple but powerful tonics. Recipes below…