Breathe
Sunday, April 25, 2010 at 7:03PM Breathing gives us life. Isn't it amazing that our bodies take over 20,000 breaths per day, and that the breath removes up to 70% of toxins in our bodies?1 And we don't even have to think for this to happen, it just does. Focused breathing exercises can help reduce stress, depression, anxiety, ADD, headache, and other dis-orders of the body and mind.2 In as little as five minutes a day, we can practice simple breathing techniques that can center us, bring us more focus, reduce stress and bring more productivity to our lives.
A short breathing practice:3
Begin by sitting quietly, and taking several deep breaths through your nose, focusing on where your breath enters and exits the body. When you are ready, inhale your breath slowly to a count of three. Hold for one count and exhale slowly through your nose to the count of three. Next inhale to five, hold for two and exhale for five. Next breath inhale to the count of seven, hold for five, then exhale to the count of seven. Resume calm, relaxed breathing until you are ready to open your eyes and resume your day.
This breathing exercise takes less than five minutes and can be done anywhere, anytime we feel stressed, even while driving.
Suggested action: Use this technique a few times this week and let me know how it goes!
1 - Via Relax for Success
2 - These statements have not been proven by the FDA or other medical entity. :)
3 - (c) iPEC
Reader Comments (2)
i just hyperventilated. damn you, schmap!
but seriously, conscientious breathing is the shit. i use it to fall asleep, to relax, to re-focus, etc. it's a great reminder you put out there - be aware of your breath!
:)