What if we changed the way we breathe, at least sometimes, to help reduce stress and anxiety?
What is breathing with intent and purpose could lead us to be more calm, controlled and centered?
The truth is that there are a number of techniques that improve the quality of our breath, helps oxygen reach the parts of the body needed in times of stress better and also help the body expel a range of toxins faster.
A good breathing practice is a huge help to relax and bring your body, mind and soul out of being "Walking on eggshells" to within your window of tolerance.
Tips:
Do a search on YouTube on terms like 'Box breathing', ' breathing meditation' and 'breathe to relax'.
Remember that two of the keys to breathing to lower stress and anxiety are:
- To bring the breathe right into your torso, let your chest and lungs expand.
- Go as slow as you can on the exhale.
So, as strange as it seems, there are some very fun things you can do to help move that oxygen full of fresh life in and that carbon dioxide and toxins out:
- Sing. Sing out loud and sing out strong. Grab some Adele power ballards and let the world know you are there. Embarrass your child in the car. For me, its some old school Petra or Casting Crowns, for you it could be ... well ... whatever you want it to be. Whatever it takes, sing.
- Blow bubbles. If anything can train your body to control you out-breath, this is it. Get outside with your children, neighbors' children, grandchildren, whoever and blow bubbles. Young children rarely grow tired of this and you are teaching them as well as yourself one of the basics of helpful, therapeutic deep breathing.
Websites and clips:
Box breathing technique #1.
Box breathing technique #2.
Sesame Street: Common and Colbie Caillat - "Belly Breathe" with Elmo