Wait! What? There is a proper way of breathing? Does that mean what we have been our whole life was……wrong?

Yes, exactly there is a proper way to breathe! Which can gain you many benefits than how we do normally. Breathing is not only critical to sustaining life but done correctly and consciously, it can be a valuable tool for getting the most out of every human endeavor.

Let’s look at 5 benefits of breathing properly!

Your breath is a direct reflection of your mood: if you’re calm and relaxed, your breath will be slow, long, and even, whereas if you’re stressed, your breath will be quicker and more shallow. Deep breathing slows down your heart rate, allows the body to take in more oxygen, and ultimately signals the brain to wind down. It also balances your hormones- lowering down cortisol levels, increasing endorphin rush in the body. Take 5 minutes to yourself breathing slowly, counting silently to measure your breath, and ensure it is even and deep. It’s a true salve for those overstimulated nerves.

The 4-7-8 breathing technique, pioneered by Dr. Andrew Weil, is described as a ‘natural tranquilizer for the nervous system’, and works by flooding the lungs with oxygen, calms the mind, and reduces any stresses that may be keeping you awake. It is a simple and straightforward method. You inhale to the count of four, hold your breath to the count of seven, and then exhale to the count of eight. Repeat as needed.

Those undergoing insomnia are often suggested practising breathing exercises, along with meditation before bedtime for good sleep.

Deep breathing brings fresh oxygen and exhales out toxins and carbon dioxide. When the blood is oxygenated, it ensures smoother functioning of your vital organs, including the immune system. A cleaner, toxin-free and healthier blood supply help ward off infection-causing germs from the base and strengthens your immunity. Deep breathing also acts as a natural toxin reliever. It also benefits the absorption of vitamins and nutrients in the body, making sure you recover faster as well.

“Screen apnea” — a term coined by author and researcher Linda Stone in 2008 — refers to the subconscious tendency to hold one’s breath or take shallow breaths while interacting with technology. Irregular breathing triggers a sympathetic (“fight or flight”) state in the body, which is helpful for short-term stress but can leave you more susceptible to anxiety, depression, insomnia, and brain fog over time. So to counter it, a popular method called the 365 method can help: At least three times a day, breathe through the nose at a rate of six breaths per minute (five seconds in, five seconds out) for five minutes. Practicing this technique every day can make you a better breather and may even improve your health.

When you breathe using the diaphragm you give your guts a massage which in turn creates movement, increases blood flow, circulation and thereby promotes digestion. It can also help stabilize and balance blood sugar levels, meaning you’re less likely to overeat.

Moreover, deep breathing is believed to lower acidity levels in the body (which increase when we’re stressed), therefore reduces inflammation.

All in all, breathing properly has tons of benefits. There are many types of breathing methods that provide many different benefits such as Jim Hoff’s breathing method, deep breathing, mindful breathing, mantra breathing, etc! Do give these a try and see your life improve!