1 2 3 Breathe
Do you take time now and then to focus on, and pay attention to, your breathing? We all know we should, right, but do we? Do You? 🤓
Honestly, I tend to forget. I go in and out of different kinds of breathing techniques and routines. It’s a learning curve and at times I feel a greater need to focus on it, other times it is just not a priority. Are you like me in this? What do you find challenging when it comes to breathing and making time for it? Maybe you are on top of things in this department? Tell me! I want to know!
I have a few tips for you if you feel like this is something you want embrace and make part of your lifestyle
✔️Make is simple - you don’t have to meditate if you find it hard to begin with that, just take a few deep breaths whilst drinking coffee, driving, before you fall asleep or just after you wake up for example
✔️Count whilst you breathe, it helps you to focus - one example is 4-7-8; breathe in for 4 sec, hold your breath for 7 sec and breathe out for 8 sec. Do that 8-10 times over…or for as long as you want of course!
✔️A little each day is better that a lot for a short time and then discontinue, just like training!
✔️Take the breaths so that the ribcage expands, avoid breathing too “high up” in the chest.
So why is it good for us to meditate, or at least breathe consciously? The positive effects are next to endless, but here are some examples;
Stress release - our brains are not “designed” for the constant flow of information we are facing today. Conscious breathing is an effective way to soothe the stress that we live in
Hormonal balancing. Our hormones are amazing. They regulate pretty much everything in our system and the hormonal systems are extremely forgiving, but we shouldn’t abuse, nor ignore, our hormones. Learn to love them and work with them!
More efficient metabolism - actually is related to the hormones as well, but this is often more understandable.
Controlling or reducing anger responses. Within this we can also include other feelings, like irritation or panic, the feeling of being helpless
Better ability to focus - with deep, controlled breathing you can get focus; something everyone can’t get enough of I believe
Managing cravings - if you are one of millions that struggle with insulin resistance and cravings, you should practice controlled breathing
Reducing anxiety
Better sleep - I will write more about sleep, as is is more than very important to get good quality sleep. Controlled breathing is definitely key!
With this said, I’d like to wish you all a wonderful, relaxing weekend. Take a moment to breathe, be thankful and embrace. It’s so worth it and the little time you take to make space for breathing, is an investment that pays back many times over!
xxx