2025: The Year of the Snake & The Snake Breath

Happy New Year! According to the Chinese Zodiac, 2025 is the Year of the Snake. It begins on January 29, with the first new moon of the lunar calendar, and ends 15 days later with the full moon. This is one of the most important traditional celebrations in Chinese culture, and millions celebrate it. The Snake, known for its ability to shed its skin, is believed to bring growth, resilience, and harmony, making it a great year to focus on personal and professional development.

I don’t know about you, but I’m a bit wary of snakes and can get worked up if I encounter them. I once saw a cobra in Nepal and nearly had a heart attack. Yet, my curiosity about snakes has led me to respect them in their natural habitats and appreciate how they symbolize transformation, primal energy, wisdom, creativity, and healing.

So, if this is the Year of the Snake, let’s learn to harness the power of the Snake Breath, a calming breathwork technique inspired by the hiss of a snake. This practice promotes relaxation and enhances focus, mindfulness, and emotional release.

What Is Snake Breath?

Snake Breath is a controlled breathing exercise characterized by a deep inhale through the nose and a slow exhale through the mouth while producing a gentle “ssssss” sound. Mimicking the hissing sound of a snake makes this breath both engaging and soothing, and fun to do with kids.

Here’s how to practice Snake Breath:

1. Find a Comfortable Position: Sit or stand in a relaxed position with your spine straight.

2. Inhale Deeply: Breathe in slowly through your nose for a count of 4-6, filling your lungs completely.

3. Exhale Slowly: Exhale through your mouth, creating a steady “ssssss” sound for a count of 8-10 or as long as feels comfortable.

4. Repeat: Practice this for 5-10 rounds, focusing on the sound and sensation of your breath.

The Benefits of Snake Breath:

• Promotes Relaxation: The elongated exhale stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to calm the body and reduce stress.
• Enhances Focus and Mindfulness: The sound and rhythm of the hiss serve as an anchor, making it easier to stay present and centered.
• Releases Tension: Snake Breath encourages the release of physical and emotional tension, creating space for renewal and clarity.
• Strengthens Lung Capacity: Practicing controlled breathing improves respiratory health and enhances your ability to manage breath under stress.
• Symbolizes Transformation:The snake is often seen as a symbol of renewal and shedding old layers. Snake Breath can feel like a metaphorical release of stress, negative emotions, or outdated thought patterns.

Uses of Snake Breath:

• In Stressful Situations: Quickly reduces anxiety or overwhelm.
• In Meditation or Yoga: Helps transition into a meditative state by calming the mind.
• For Energy Clearing: Aids in releasing negative emotions or stagnant energy.
• Before Presentations or Performances: Enhances focus and steadies the nerves.
• As a Sleep Aid: Prepares the body and mind for rest by slowing down the breath.