Can something as simple as breathing support good health? Yes.

Deep breathing sends endorphins coursing through our bodies, reducing tension and promoting health.

Endorphins are natural pain-relievers that our bodies make. They’re powerful little substances that can ease headaches, insomnia, back aches and other symptoms of stress.

Deep breathing is also thought to detoxify the body, helping the lymphatic system carry toxins out of the body.

Breathe in deeply through your nose, expanding your belly as you do. Don’t use your chest. Sloooowwwwly. Purse your lips and exhale slowly through your mouth.

Stressed? Slow your breathing –to 10 breaths per minute, if possible–a rate that is thought to help reduce blood pressure.

Breathing. We do it anyway, so why not do it purposefully and get the health benefit?

This is another in a series of posts on easy ways to promote good health.