Many cultures believe that breathing is the essence of being. Breathing is a natural process that you experience around the clock without even thinking about it. While breathing is an unconscious task, you can consciously control your breathing to help regulate your blood pressure, circulation, heart rate and digestive process. Breathing exercises can also help you relax and alleviate stress.
Belly Breathing
Belly breathing can help to deepen your breathing, cleanse the lungs, increase your energy and reduce stress levels, according to the University of Missouri. Lie on your back with a small pillow underneath your neck and knees to reduce strain. Place your hands on your diaphragm -- at the base of your rib cage. Slowly breath in and out. If you are breathing properly through your belly, you should notice your fingers moving at each breath. Do this exercise for five minutes.
Humming Breath Exercise
This exercise can help you to relax as well as strengthen your stomach muscles. Sit up straight and exhale. As you inhale again, relax your stomach muscles and continue inhaling until you feel your chest and rib cage begin to expand. Exhale and making a humming sounds as you exhale. Continue this humming sound as long as possible. As you hum, contract your stomach muscles. Do this exercise for two to three minutes.
Tai Chi Chuan Breathing
The Chinese practice of tai chi chuan focuses on short, fine, deep breathing. Sit straight up and inhale through your nose as you raise your arms out at your sides so that they are fully extended and at the height of your shoulders. Exhale and then inhale through your nose once more as you keep your arms out at your sides. Exhale, then inhale through your nose again as you lift your arms up over your head. Inhale, then exhale as you lower your arms to your sides. Complete this exercise for 10 to 12 breathes.
Warnings
If you experience lightheadedness during any type of breathing exercise, stop and resume your normal breathing. Older individuals or those with respiratory conditions should never engage in shallow breathing while standing, because it can cause hyperventilation or fainting.
