take a deep breath and relax!

Breathing is essential to life. We cannot exist without it, and yet many people take it for granted. Most of us do not realise that when we are under stress, we tend to hold our breath or take short, shallow breaths.

Oxygen is one of the most important nutrients for the brain, heart and other major organs of the body. When we limit our intake of oxygen, it can have a negative effect, on not only the body, but also the mind.

Breathing is unique in that, although it is automatic and outside of your conscious awareness, it can be controlled by your intention. With the use of deep breathing relaxation techniques, you can achieve control over this automatic process. By deepening and slowing down the breath, you can learn to become more relaxed.

Have you ever noticed how a baby’s stomach rises and fall with each breath? This is the art of proper deep breathing. Most adult are inclined to fill only the upper chest when they breathe, this is shallow breathing.

The breathing exercise that follows, will, with practise, strengthen the lungs, improve circulation and oxygenate the blood. It is also very effective in relieving stress and tension.

Taking a “deep breath” means breathing in air through the nose to fill the lower part of the lungs. “Releasing a breath,” means exhaling all of the stale air from the lungs through the mouth before taking in another fresh breath.

1.. The first step is to give yourself permission to practice deep breathing.

2.. Find a comfortable chair to sit in.

3.. Relax your body completely by taking a deep breath through your nose.

4.. Hold the breath for a count of five and then very slowly release through your mouth to a count of ten.

5.. While you are holding the breath, focus your attention on your stomach to ensure it is extended as far as you can comfortably extend it.

6.. It is good to start with five of these breathing exercises and gradually increase.

Working with your breath is effective, convenient and above all FREE!

Ruth Taylor | Tel: 0794 710 4061
Email: info@ruthtaylorlifecoaching.com