The benefit of breathing

April 11, 2015

benefit-of-breathThe benefit of breath–of deep breathing–to reduce anxiety is well known.

Breathing releases endorphins, those feel good hormones that calm our minds.

Blood pressure goes down, calming the body from head to toe.

It oygenates entire body, increasing our energy levels.

Breathing is cleansing. Many of our body’s toxins are released through breath.

Rhythmic  breathing helps with insomnia as it relaxes the body.

And breathing can connect the body to spirit in wondrous ways.

Here is a breathing exercise you might want to try:

  1. Sit comfortably, hands on your knees with shoulders relaxed and eyes closed.
  2. Exhale fully–empty your longs completely.
  3. Take in a slow, deep breath through your nose.
  4. Then, exhale slowly–to the count of five–through your nose.
  5. Pause. Then inhale to the count of five, expanding your tummy.
  6. Repeat at least five times, more if you can.

My favorite meditation prayer was taught to me years ago. I like to do it while I breathe. Here it is.

Breathe in slowly while you think and feel each line. Pause at the end, then exhale.

Be still and know that I am God.

Be still and know that I am.

Be still and know.

Be still.

Be.

28 comments on “The benefit of breathing
  1. Breathing articles and ideas have been presenting themselves to me this week. Fascinating how these things happen. I have been focusing on deep breathing for a while–urged on by my massage therapist.

  2. Pat says:

    This is spot on. I practice mindfulness and breathing exercises and now I will add the meditation prayer. Perfect bliss!

  3. These are wonderful reminders. I try and do a bit of this each day and it makes a huge difference. Thank you for your words!

  4. Patricia says:

    It is indeed a beautiful prayer. Thanks for bringing it back to me.

  5. Sandy says:

    I totally agree. Meditation can really help to clear your mind. It is a great way to just sit and listen to God. 🙂

  6. Wonderful post Carol. I love your breathing exercises. I need to BREATHE more!

  7. Haralee says:

    Thanks. I sometimes find myself holding my breath and wonder why I am feeling anxious! I am having some dental repair and this will be a good relaxation exercise before and during.

  8. Jay Lickus says:

    Even the Moody Blues preached “Breathe Deep”… So there must be something to it

  9. Thank you, for that little mini-vacation.
    Truly.
    What a difference a few moments can make.

  10. I have issues with anxiety, so thank you for this. I love that scripture, but I haven’t thought of stripping it word by word down to be a mantra. That’s really helpful! Really. Helpful. Thank you!

  11. Lisa Froman says:

    Yes, very relaxing!

  12. I love your little prayer- that’s so cool! I need to remember to do this more often…. just take time out, to breathe.

  13. Nina Gaby says:

    First line of defense. Thanks.

  14. Toni McCloe says:

    Thanks for the lovely reminder to be, just be. I think focusing on the breath is a cure for almost everything.

  15. Agata says:

    I like yours breathing exercise; it helps 🙂

  16. Jeanine says:

    Great to know! Breathing exercises I find are so calming and soothing. Great there’s some good benefits too!

  17. This is very timely for me. My blood pressure has been uncontrollable even with meds. My doctor suggested I learn some breathing exercises, quickly. Thank you fro sharing this one and the beautiful prayer.

  18. Ruth Curran says:

    Like the rhythm of the Earth — steady as it goes…..

  19. Carolann says:

    I once downloaded an app that helps you control your breathing…it was terribly boring so that went in the trash fast. I’d much rather do the steps as you outlined them. I always like being reminded how important breathing actually is…thank you!

  20. PatU says:

    Don’t take your breath for granted.

    My lungs stink and I find even the simplest breathing exercises difficult and anxiety provoking.

  21. Perfect way to end a Saturday night! Thanks!

  22. Estelle says:

    Carol, What a beautiful meditation. I plan to use this one.

  23. Thank you for the reminder. I am going to need deep breathing A LOT very soon.

  24. I didn’t need to be reminded of this, I needed to be taught. I have skirted this issue for a long time. But last week I realized how short my breaths had been. I was lightheaded and my mouth was so dry. I printed out your 5 steps and meditation prayer. Until I learn how to do it I am going to sit and read it. Thank you my friend. I love how the things we need will come to us…

  25. Isn’t it crazy how we take breathing for granted. In yoga, we learn that breathing properly can keep you from a number of illnesses. I love how focusing on our breath can centre us.

  26. Jhoveleen says:

    I learn the essential parts of breathing when I start doing yoga. Thanks to it because it helps me a lot, especially dealing with stress.

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