BREATH

Our breath is truly our partner for life. It's with us from the day we are born, and only ceases when we are gone. Breathing happens naturally without any thought or effort on our part (otherwise how would we sleep), but if we give it some attention we can use it as a tool to actually manage how we feel.

Shallow, rapid, chest breathing can make us feel either ready for quick action, or anxious if there is no actual physical action. This activates our fight-or-flight response.

On the other hand we can make ourselves calmer and more focused when we slow down our breath and deepen it, drawing oxygen down into the diaphragm where the ribs are and even below toward the belly. This is called a rest-and-digest phase.

Of course, it helps if the lungs have room to move. Give it a try: slouch with your shoulders rounded and try to take a deep breath. Not so easy, is it? Then sit up tall and bring your shoulders slightly back. Can you breathe more easily?

Now, imagine what happens when you spend many hours in that collapsed, slouched position, such as when at the computer or sitting to watch TV. No wonder we get that mid-afternoon slump! Instead of reaching for coffee or a sugary treat, try some good posture and deep breaths for a few minutes. This can even be done while reclined on the floor or in bed.

Speaking of which, I've recorded and uploaded a FREE 10 minute simple breathing video to YouTube. It even has a breath technique for anyone who has respiratory issues. Give it a try and let me know what you think. (See link below. "Like" the video and subscribe to my channel for more.)

Stay safe, stay cool, be well,

Eva