Correct breathing can result in an enhanced state of physical and mental well being. The primary physiological function of the body is breathing, it happens throughout the day without us realizing and supplies the cells with oxygen as well as releasing carbon dioxide. Breathing is rarely something that is thought about, but through incorrect postures, stress, worry and over-active lifestyles, we begin to breathe incorrectly through shallow breathing, this can then result in physical and mental health not being in the state that it should be. However correct breathing can lead to a better state of physical and mental well being; reduce stress, allow the body to relax, allow for concentration and to physically help the body, breathing correctly can be a simple yet efficient process.

Why Breathing Matters

Breathing is the vital way in which oxygen is supplied to the body. Oxygen is needed in the functioning of every cell in the body. Oxygen is responsible for energy production, brain functions and organ efficiency.

By taking shallow, fast breaths it is likely that the body is not receiving enough oxygen; this can then have a detrimental effect on the body and is thought to cause tiredness, tension, lack of concentration and increasing levels of stress. Proper breathing ensures that oxygen levels are maximized so that body functions can be more effective.

Through understanding about breath and the role it plays in the body, it is possible to use breathing patterns, for the mind and body’s advantage.

Helps Reduce Stress and Anxiety

One of the most recognized benefits of good breathing is that it can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels. In people experiencing stress or anxiety their breathing can become shallow and rapid. This actually puts them into stress response and intensifies the anxious feeling.

Promotes Relaxation

A main element of meditations, yoga practices, relaxation practices includes being introduced to the different methods of breathing, because the proper use of deep controlled breathing may allow body and mind to attain a relaxed state. We are more in touch with the environment when we are practicing controlled, deep breathing, and may gain relief from anxiety by taking the attention away from any thoughts or emotions that could possibly be irritating, troublesome or worry some. These effects are more likely to bring inner peace, rest, and clearness of thought. Practicing a few minutes a day of deep controlled breathing may truly make one feel noticeably more relaxed.

Improves Oxygen Flow Throughout the Body

Proper breathing maximizes the lungs’ absorption of oxygen and promotes a better circulation of oxygen to all of the body. With the increased amount of oxygen throughout the body, it helps to maintain the good performance of the organs as well as the muscles in the body. Good oxygen circulation also aids the production of energy that we needed every day.

A better circulation of oxygen throughout the body would also help the body to recover more quickly. The proper breathing methods would also contribute to reduced feelings of tiredness and improve the individual’s performance physically. One who exercises the breathing method usually reports that the person would feel more alive and energetic in the morning, as well as all through out the day.

Enhances Mental Focus and Concentration

The brain is one of the main factors which influences our performance and is very heavy oxygen consumer. Shallow breathing which is causing lack of oxygen flow to our brain results in brain tiredness, inability to focus, low productivity etc. The practices of deep breathing support better flow of oxygen into the brain and can help people concentrate better, focus better, perform better in tasks and so on. Some people try to practice it before some important meeting, exam or presentation for getting more focus, control of their anxiety and better alertness. The clear state of the brain helps to make good decisions.

Supports Better Sleep

Lack of sleep can be detrimental to the mood, energy levels and general health. Many find it difficult to fall asleep because their mind races or they feel tense/stressed. A slow breathing exercise can be used before sleep. Slow breathing will calm the nervous system and prepare the body for rest. Taking deep breathes promote relaxation which will make falling asleep easier. Having a bedtime breathing routine can lead to better quality of sleep.

Helps Lower Blood Pressure

Chronically high blood pressure may strain the cardiovascular system due to an excess amount of pressure on it. Breathing exercises relax some of this stress induced tightness and are therefore beneficial to the heart.

Decreasing blood pressure by slow breathing has been documented in several studies, showing the decrease in BP due to decreased vascular tone. Although these exercises should be in conjunction with medical attention, rather than in place of. Over time slow breathing has been found to be advantageous to overall cardiovascular health.

Encourages Better Posture

The act of breathing and posture are intricately connected. When a person’s posture is bad, the expansion of the lungs are inhibited therefore decreasing breathing performance. If you work at correcting your posture (either sitting or standing up) you will allow a more efficient breathing pattern to occur. It could be said there are other exercises that work for posture, however there seems to be a good link between learning about your breathing system and improving posture in terms of breathing performance, muscle tension will also likely be reduced.

Supports Physical Activity and Exercise

Promotes the practice of sport and exercise. The techniques of controlled breathing are known and accepted to athletes and the general public. The techniques of breath control are practiced by athletes and fans of physical activity to obtain the greatest efficiency in terms of energy production and the supplying of oxygen to the muscles. Controlled breathing also helps increase endurance, reduce feelings of fatigue and speed up recovery after a sport activity. The positive effects of controlled breathing, however, are observed also during less intense activities such as a walk or stretching. Use techniques of controlled breathing for your usual sport activities to better benefit from and enjoy them.

Simple Breathing Techniques to Try

Diaphragmatic Breathing

Diaphragmatic breathing: This type of breathing, also called abdominal breathing, focuses on slow, deep inhalations into the abdomen rather than the chest.

Deep Breathing

Deep Breathing-Breathe in through the nose, pause briefly and then exhale slowly through the mouth. This has an effect of being calming and helping to reduce tension.

Box Breathing

Inhale for four counts, hold for four counts, exhale for four counts, and hold again for four counts. This method helps improve focus and calmness.

Mindful Breathing

Pay attention to each of your inhalations and exhalations. Don’t judge anything about them. This will help you become more mindful and create emotional equilibrium.

Conclusion

The correct use of breathing can offer you a range of benefits to the body and the mind. The advantages to achieving correct breathing are: you will become less stressed, more relaxed, concentrate more, get more sleep and become oxygenated.

Breathing occurs on a minute by minute basis; this makes it a simple and accessible way to improve your health. Correct breathing will have many benefits when used on a regular basis and can help people to get over their stresses.