Before you read this post, Take a deep breath.
Did you do it? Prior to that statement, did you have to think about taking a swig of air? Of course not. Sounds silly right. How many of us take for granted our body and brain’s ability to operate on autopilot for something that is so essential to maintaining our life? Our consciousness to our breath can be intermittent and not a top priority until we become overwhelmed, stressed out, panicky or when a crisis strikes. A true reality check for how delicate life is can come in a moment when you find yourself or witness someone choking or fighting for air. In an emergency situation, Breathing is essential. No breath for too long means, no life. So, if breathing is a life or death issue why not employ healthier strategies for managing how air flows through your body.
Mental Health & Breathing
Your overall emotional well being is connected to your breath. Think about it. When you experience an intense emotion such as anger, surprise or fear; a natural tendency for many of us is to hold our breath. Shallow breathing from the chest can be a result of experiencing normal, everyday stress or tension. Rapid or uncontrolled breathing can be a result of experiencing anxiety or having a panic attack. There are also some overall health benefits to monitoring your breathing habits. Check out this brief list of benefits:
- calming & relaxing effects
- helps with concentration & focus
- improves endurance
- allows internal organs to function more efficiently
5 Quick Tips for Healthy Breathing
- Take a yoga class, walk or engage in some form of exercise
- Pray/ meditate: connect with your breathe, notice and be grateful
- Breathe from your abdomen not your chest
- Inhale through your nose & hold for 3 seconds, then exhale out of your mouth for 3 seconds
- Be self-aware of your breathing habits. Slow down and practice taking deep breaths 3 separate times for 5 minutes each per day. Try this prescription at different intervals or transitions during the day or even before meal times.
Don’t be afraid to assess your breathing strategies. How are you breathing? Can you think of other benefits to healthy breathing strategies or any additional tips that might be helpful to others? Please share your wisdom or thoughts.
Be Well & Keep Breathing
The FFC Center was founded in 2011 in Frisco TX, with a focus of providing quality counseling support to children, teens, adults, and families.
We offer concierge counseling services, clinics, and exclusive membership resources and classes that encourage our clients to Recover Strong, Live Fully, and Thrive Unleashed.
Shahidrah Cowgill – who has written 34 posts on Fundamental Foundations Counseling Center.
