Pat_Health&Wellness Tools

Life as we know it today is throwing a lot at us and all at the same time, too! It’s only natural that most people are under a lot of unwanted stress right now. Just know you are not alone in this.

Are you aware that a breathing technique called deep breathing helps in mood improvement and reduction of stress level in adults?  If yes, do you practice it when under stress? If no, read on for a summary of how breathing helps with stress management.

Breathing involves taking in/ inhaling a gas called oxygen for absorption by the lungs in the body and the expelling/ exhaling of another gase called carbon dioxide from the lungs. This process is facilitated by a muscle that controls the lungs called the diaphragm, which is under the lungs and between the ribs.

When under stress, you breathe differently from when you are not, by taking small shallow breaths using your shoulders instead of your diaphragm to move air in and out of your lungs ( sounds familiar?). This creates an imbalance in these gases, which them prolongs your stress and anxiety .

To relax when under pressure, you need to make a mental and  conscious effort to breath  through your nose in a slow, even, deep and gentle manner to calm yourself gradually. Your diaphragm ( not shoulders) will move in rhythm with your slow and gentle breathing.

Repeat this  slow and deep breathing pattern as many times as you need until you feel better, or you are in a good place psychologically and mentally.

As usual, seek professional help as required. You do not want to be under prolonged or uncontrolled  stress  all the time, as this could result in chronic disease such as high blood pressure or hypertension.

So breathe, but breathe well and let go of whatever is outside your control and relax.

Cheers and live healthy daily.