Take a Deep Breath
How many times have you heard the words, "Take a couple of deep breaths and relax!" Well, it really does work!
Deep breathing is like sending your nervous system a message to relax. Through the practice of deep breathing you can dissipate stress and reduce your levels of tension and anxiety. You also use muscles that automatically improve your posture and keep your lung tissue elastic, which allows you to take in more oxygen. Deep breathing even strengthens your immune system since breathing loads your blood with oxygen. Shallow breathing doesn't oxygenate your blood very efficiently which allows toxins to collect in the cells. This causes a feeling of sluggishness as organs begin to malfunction. Something as simple as the quality of your breath can have a profound effect on the well-being of your body and mind!
There are various ways to practice deep breathing—try this one to relax:
- Sit comfortably and upright.
- Close your eyes and envision a serene, peaceful setting.
- Now, let your breath flow along in a long and smooth movement while you inhale through your nose and exhale out the back of your throat...think Darth Vader. (Inhale for 10 counts and exhale for 3 counts longer than the inhalation—the deeper you exhale stale oxygen the more you will be able to inhale fresh oxygen.)
- Gradually let your breath return to normal.
- Take a few moments to sit with your eyes closed and notice the difference in how you feel overall.
Time spent in traffic or waiting in line is an ideal opportunity to practice your deep breathing!