Breath is the essential force of our existence. Without breath, we would not be alive! Those of us who are blessed with good health can literally take each single breath for granted, and breathing can be a mindless activity left to the brilliance and reliability of our bodies. Yet what happens when we lose our breath? When we’re frightened, over-stressed, or physically spent, that previously mindless activity becomes a life-saving mission. We panic! But if we take a few minutes a day to engage in mindful breathing, we have the ability to change our physiological state.
Mindful breathing is a great way to relieve stress and trapped emotions that have been suppressed in our bodies. If you’re feeling stressed or anxious, calm your nerves by taking some deep and slow breaths. It’s also a great energy-booster, as 70 percent of our energy comes from breathing. If you feel like you don’t have enough energy during the day, take a moment to breathe. Engaging in breathing exercises for a few minutes daily elevates the oxygen levels in your bloodstream, which is the key to increasing the energy available to your mind and body. When you’re working out, mindful breathing will help you get through tough physical exercises by bringing focus to the mind, energy to the body, and strength to the muscles.
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Exercise:
Deep Belly Breathing:
Lie on your back with the soles of your feet on the floor (or sit on a chair with the soles of your feet on floor and your back supported). Feel your spine on the floor and place your hands on your belly. Relax your shoulders and neck, take a deep inhale through your nose for four counts, filling your belly with air like a balloon. Hold the breath for four counts, and then slowly exhale out of your mouth (as if you are exhaling out of a straw) and deflating your stomach until all the air is squeezed out of your lungs. Inhale and repeat the exercise for four repetitions or more. When you feel comfortable, increase the sets to six counts, then eight counts, and so on.
