Breathing is the way to life, yet most of us take it for granted. One should be aware of the knowledge of proper breathing techniques to have a healthy body and mind.

Proper breathing simply means an effective process of breathing in air and letting out the same. Diaphragmatic breathing also referred to as abdominal breathing, results in the intake of sufficient oxygen and the removal of carbon dioxide from the body. It is necessary for general health.

Proper Breathing Benefits

• Increases oxygen supply: Increases the level of energy depending on cellular activity.
• Reduces stress: It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which prepares the body for relaxation.
• Enhances focus: It leads to clarity of the mind and concentration.
• Better Physical Performance: Assists in energy and duration for any physical performance.
• Better Posture: Ensures correct alignment and takes away muscular tension.

Guidelines For Diaphragmatic Breathing

• Get into a comfortable position by sitting or lying down in a relaxed position with your back in place. Take a backward stretch, then place one hand on the chest and the other on the belly.

• Develop a Rhythm: Aim to find a nice rhythm with your breath where you breathe in and breathe out for the same length of time. A guideline for length is to inhale for four, hold for two, and exhale for six.
• Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Practice diaphragmatic breathing for at least a few minutes each day so that it becomes second nature.

Application Exercise

Now lean back on your armchair and stretch your chest backwards, throwing your arms well back. INHALE DEEPLY THROUGH YOUR NOSE, making sure that your abdomen rises with the expansion of your diaphragm. Your chest remains relatively still. Now, purse your lips and EXHALE SLOWLY THROUGH YOUR MOUTH. 

Tips for Effective Breathing

• Mindfulness: Be attentive to your breathing. Notice how and when you might be holding your breath or breathing shallowly, and make a conscious shift to deep, slow breathing.

• Engage in Breathing Exercises: Further to the practice, make use of further specified exercises, e.g., 4-7-8 technique—inhalation for four seconds, hold breath for seven seconds, exhalation for eight seconds, or box breathing—inhale, hold, exhale, hold, all for four seconds.
• Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration equates to good lung health and good breathing.
• Posture: Proper posture is necessary, mainly because the spine should not be sagging against the back of the chair.
• Regular Exercise: One of the most effective ways to improve breathing function is by engaging in consistent, recurring physical activities such as yoga or tai chi.
• Quite Environment: Perform exercises in an area with the least possible noise and a soothing effect.

Conclusion

Correct breathing is one of the simplest yet most potent techniques that can transform your life significantly. Therefore, adopt this diaphragmatic breathing and practice it incessantly to reap enormous physical, mental, and emotional benefits from wholesome respiration.

As with any skill, the more you practice and are mindful, the better. So get up and running today, and take that deep breath toward a healthier, balanced life.

Check out the online course on Breathing Techniques Coaching by the Mental Sea Academy. They are able to assist all interested individuals in the study of their breathwork abilities and enhancement. Their deep course provides training, together with practical techniques, on how to become skilled in breath coaching and get accredited by CPD, the Continuous Development Program.

Feel the power of your breath and change your life today!