Health & Breath

We breathe every moment of every day. Breathing is our most constant and necessary activity, yet we often don’t think about it. Many of us breathe inefficiently; we breathe through our mouths, taking shallow breaths and using our chests rather than our diaphragms. However, if you take breathing more seriously, you can become aware of the natural medical benefits of thoughtful breath. Pranayama is a breathing exercise used in yoga that promotes proper breathing; it is most commonly translated as “the control of the breath.”

Respiration is one of the most important functions of the body; that should come as no surprise. Oxygen plays a key role in our metabolism. Without it, the body cannot efficiently process the food we eat, nor generate the energy we need to avoid feeling tired and run down. Thus, the rhythm and rate of breathing not only reflects one’s physical condition but will also help to create a better physical condition.

Less Stress

Breathing is also a unique physiological function as it is both voluntary and automatic. By modifying one’s breathing, taking slower, deeper breaths one has the ability to help control the nervous system. Ultimately, breathing slowly can induce a state of relaxation, focus, and calmness.

Better Circulation

When we breathe only using the chest, our breathing becomes rapid and shallow. This kind of chest breathing doesn’t fully expand the lungs and leaves static air in parts of the lungs. Expanding only parts of the lungs increases the likelihood of poor blood circulation, which impairs the functioning of the organs and can lead to infection or other health problems.