The Health Benefits of Deep Breathing
There's a big difference between regular breathing and deep breathing. Regular breathing comes from the lungs, using the chest muscles. It provides oxygen to the heart which in turn makes sure the oxygen gets to all the cells in the body. There's not an organ in the body that can operate without oxygen. A lack of sufficient oxygen to the brain can cause confusion, disorientation, and drowsiness.
Deep breathing involves learning to slow the breathing and use the diaphragm, the muscle located beneath the lungs, and not just the chest muscles. To do this effectively, take a long, deep breath inhaled through the nose. Do you see your chest expand? That is a normal deep breath. Now sit up straight and take another deep breath using the diaphragm. Your chest will rise and you will feel the diaphragm move upwards. Exhale slowly, preferably through pursed lips. That is an effective deep breath.
Deep breathing allows the body to take in more oxygen and release more carbon dioxide. This leads to many health benefits: a lowering of blood pressure, slowing of heart rate, and relaxation of the muscles. It calms the mind, helping to reduce insomnia. An increase of energy and reduction of fatigue with reduced anxiety and stress are desired effects, also.
Deep breathing is also beneficial to the lymphatic system. This system carries toxins away from cells as the circulatory system carries oxygen to the cells. This exchange helps keep the body in a healthy balance.
Eastern cultures have practiced deep breathing for centuries. They know it is essential to keep the mind and body in a positive relationship. The practices of yoga, qigong, and t'ai chi include deep breathing in their relaxation techniques. Could this be the reason Asian women suffer fewer menopausal symptoms?
If we all used deep breathing exercises, even as little as a few minutes a day, we could improve our mental outlook and most likely see an improvement in our physical health as well.
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Published by Rebecca Foster
A middle-aged nurse who has a passion for writing. The mother of 3, grandmother of 6. Lives in the mountains of East Tennessee. View profile
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