“To sell well is to convince someone else to part with resources—not to deprive that person, but to leave him better off in the end."

- Daniel H. Pink, To Sell Is Human

Introduction:

In high-pressure situations, such as intense negotiations, maintaining mental clarity and calm is crucial. Many of us tend to lack this focus, and on top of that we forget to tap into our diaphragm to speak with confidence (learn more about how our ability to speak is an add-on to our ability to breathe).

When an executive books a 15 Minute Breathwork Adjustment with me, there is a single Breathwork technique I prescribe without fail: Breath of Fire. Let's learn it now.

Breath Of Fire

Science

Thanks to the work of Qiu Fu Ma at Harvard Medical School, we know that by strongly stimulating our diaphragm we can increase the release of adrenaline. Plus, by activating our diaphragms we can push through any blockages in the throat, whether it's physical congestion from a cold or the dry throat that forms part of our sympathetic stress response.

Protocol

Use this technique when you’re in the paradox of lacking energy yet feeling anxious. Maybe it’s before a big presentation or asking your boss for a raise. This Breathwork will both increase your vitality and remove fear. 

Walkthrough

Finding a seated position with a straight spine, place the hands on the belly. This is a breath in and out through the nose, however, the exhale is strong and the inhale is passive. You can imagine that on the exhale your belly button is like a drum hitting your kidneys (located on the backside of your body). The breath is at a fast rhythm (think Staying Alive by the Bee Gees). Do this breath for 90 seconds to 3 minutes.

Guided Video