Deep breathing is an antistress agent and has several noticeable health benefits. It has a calming affect. Feelings like anger or fear can quickly be replaced by a focused, relaxed state of mind. People with anxiety disorders, sleep problems, and even general body aches and pains often use this type of treatment.
The Natural Painkiller
Deep breathing releases endorphins throughout the body. Endorphins are those feel-good, natural painkillers created by our own bodies. When practicing deep breathing, the upward and downward movement that the diaphragm performs helps to remove toxins from our organs and promotes better blood flow. Oxygen provides energy, which means that we are creating an increase in our energy level by breathing deeply. Learning a few techniques and taking just a few moments each day to practice some deep breathing exercises can decrease stress, relax your mind and body and help you sleep better.
The Technique
The technique of natural deep breathing is easy to understand.
Sit in a comfortable position with your hands on your knees and your shoulders relaxed. Breathing begins with exhaling. You cannot fully inhale until you empty your lungs completely. Breathe in through your nose. Exhale slowly through your nose while you count to five. Tighten or tense your abdominal muscles. At the end of your breath, pause for two counts, then inhale slowly while you count to five. Expand your belly as you breathe in. Close your eyes and repeat five to10 times.
If your mind wanders during this exercise, don't worry. Refocus on your counting. You will become more aware of the way you are breathing and you will find that it becomes easier to breathe deeply without giving so much thought to the process.
The Benefits
Whether you are currently involved in an exercise program or have your own physical fitness regimen, think about enhancing your routine by paying more attention to the way you breathe. Mindful exercise, meaning that you are thinking about the movement and how you are breathing through it, has the power to change not only how you look, but also how you feel.
The many benefits of deep breathing include a reduction in stress and blood pressure, strengthening of abdominal and intestinal muscles and relief of general body aches and pains. Deep breathing also promotes better blood flow, releases toxins from the body and aids in healthy sleep. These benefits result in an increased energy level. The secret is simply to breathe, deeply and often.
