The importance of breathing

enero 19, 2022

Stress reduction, control of emotions, improved attention—certain breathing techniques can make life better. But where do you start?

As we all know we enter the world by inhaling, and in leaving, we exhale. Breathing is so central to life that it is no wonder why our ancestors not only used the breath to survive but also improve wellbeing in the body and mind.

“Oxygen is to the nervous system what gasoline is to your car” Buddha’s brain – Foundation of Mindfulness

Although just 2 percent of body weight, your brain uses roughly 20% of your oxygen. By taking several deep breaths, you increase oxygen saturation in your blood and thus boost your brain!

How breathing, emotions, and the nervous system are linked all together?

When you are feeling calm or engaged in a safe social exchange, your breathing slows down and deepens. You are under the influence of the parasympathetic nervous system (the rest and digest response), which produces a relaxing effect.

On the other hand, when you are feeling frightened, in pain, tense and uncomfortable, your breathing speeds up and becomes deeper. The sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s various reactions to stress (the Fight or Flight response), is now activated.

When to use breathing techniques?

Any time you are experiencing occasional episodes of emotional/physical discomforts such as stress, anxiety, or on the other hand, episodes of low energy level in the body. It can be as simple as before taking an exam, speaking in public, or nourishing your meditation – yoga practice with breathing techniques. You can also start each day with a breathing technic routine generating a balancing effect.