Before we begin with health benefits of deep breathing, it is important that we understand how regular breathing is different from deep breathing. When we breathe, our diaphragm contracts and our stomach expands. This is the correct way to breathe but what many of us tend to do is suck in our stomach and raise our shoulder to breathe. These are called shallow breaths. When people talk about breathing techniques, they mean a technique to breathe right without making conscious effort. For this, one must ease all stress and worries. Deep breathing exercise benefits our bodies by ensuring the correct posture and proper coordination of the respiratory muscles.
Deep breathing benefits the body by taking in the correct amount of oxygen which in turn lowers blood pressure and relaxes muscles. It also relaxes the brain and causes the heart rate to slow down. Deep breathing helps our body to release more cordon dioxide. Amongst the many health benefits of deep breathing are its cleansing properties for the lymphatic system. We know that the lymph surrounds all the cells in our bodies, correct breathing technique removes the toxins from these cells through the lymphatic system. Deep breathing is known to release endorphins which, in layman’s terms are called feel good hormones. These are natural pain killers in the body and help relax the muscles and nerves. Deep breathing is also known to help people who are depressed. Asthmatics also benefit a lot from deep breathing as it makes the abdominal muscles stronger and improves the lung capacity. Shallow breathing leads to the flow of insufficient oxygen in the body which leads to muscle exertion, lethargy and fatigue. Deep breathing can help us activate our relaxation response. This has many health benefits like reducing stress and anxiety. In fact, deep breathing is one of the best stress relievers. It also helps people suffering from insomnia. Deep breathing exercise benefits in losing weight. Eastern traditions of yoga and tai-chi function on this principle. More on deep breathing relaxation technique.
Deep Breathing Exercises
Deep breathing exercises are very easy and they can be done anywhere and anytime. The easiest of these can be done while sitting at your workplace or in front of the television. To begin your deep breathing exercises, make sure your spine is straight and your posture is correct. Take a deep breath in a count to 6 and slowly exhale. Take longer time to exhale. Repeat this 10 times at least. When you breathe, ensure that your stomach expands when inhaling and contracts when exhaling. Another way to practice deep breathing is to sit in a secluded place with your eyes closed, preferable early in the morning in fresh air. Repeat the above technique but pause for a split second before you exhale. This is a way to meditate, so try to easy all your worries and focus on something that calms your nerves. More on deep breathing exercises to lower blood pressure.