Benefits of Proper Breathing for Well-Being
Breathing is something that we all do without thinking. It’s an automatic process that keeps us alive, but have you ever stopped to think about the benefits of breathing properly? Breathing is not only essential for survival, but it can also have a profound impact on our physical and mental well-being. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of breathing properly and why it’s important to pay attention to your breath.
- Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Breathing is closely linked to our emotional state, and studies have shown that breathing techniques can help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Deep breathing, also known as diaphragmatic breathing, has been shown to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s rest and relaxation response. By slowing down and deepening your breath, you can activate this response, which can help you feel calmer and more relaxed.
- Improves Lung Function
Breathing properly can improve lung function by increasing the amount of oxygen that enters the body. When we breathe in, oxygen is transported to the lungs, where it enters the bloodstream and is carried to the rest of the body. Breathing techniques such as:
- belly breathing
- pursed lip breathing
can help improve lung function by strengthening the diaphragm and increasing the volume of air that enters the lungs.
- Boosts Energy Levels
Proper breathing can help boost energy levels by increasing the amount of oxygen that is available to the body. When we breathe in, oxygen is transported to the cells, where it is used to produce energy. By increasing the amount of oxygen that enters the body, we can improve our energy levels and reduce feelings of fatigue.
Benefits of Proper Breathing for Well-Being Breathing techniques such as:
- mindfulness meditation
- pranayama
can help improve focus and concentration by calming the mind and reducing distracting thoughts. By focusing on the breath, we can train the mind to become more present and focused, which can enhance productivity and performance.
- Improves Digestion
Breathing properly can also improve digestion by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s rest and digest response. When we’re stressed or anxious, the body’s sympathetic nervous system is activated, which can slow down digestion and lead to digestive issues. By activating the parasympathetic nervous system through breathing techniques, we can improve digestion and reduce digestive issues.
If you want to learn more, I recommend reading James Nestor’s fabulous book Breathe on Amazon and here is the link: here, Asher Longevity Institute website is the right place for you!
