The quickest way to stop stressing and start relaxing may
be as simple and convenient as taking a deep breath. Yogis
have known for thousands of years what Dr. Lamaze
discovered in the 40’s - that there is great power in the
breath. If a breathing technique can help a women relax
during childbirth, just think of what breath can do to
relax you.

Does your breathing changes when you are in a stressful
situation; a job interview, airline flight or blood draw.
Do you start to breathe shallow? Some people hold their
breath when stressed causing even more stress. Before long
shallow breathing becomes a habit and you’re stuck in a
vicious cycle that takes a toll on your life.

Deep breathing has been proven to stop the cycle of stress.
It is impossible to breathe deep and be stressed at the
same time - physiologically your body won’t allow it to
happen. Breathing deeply transforms tension, anxiety, and
fatigue into a healthy focused energy that allows you to
overcome the stresses in your life.

The next time you find yourself overwhelmed with stress,
try this simple yogic breathing technique. Come into a
comfortable seated position with your spine erect or lie
down on your back. Begin taking long, slow, deep breathes
through your nose. As you inhale, push your stomach
outward, lifting the ribs, and then expanding your chest as
much as possible as the breath flows up in a wave-like
motion. Now, as you exhale, collapsing your chest first,
then your ribs and finally contracting the abdominal
muscles at the end of the exhalation to squeeze out all of
the residual air. Practice twice a day or anytime you feel
stressed. This can also be used to help you fall asleep.

Another benefit of deep yogic breathing is that it uses the
full capacity of the lungs which removes toxins, keep the
lungs and chest flexible, and creates an increase in
overall energy. Instead of that afternoon latte break, try
a breathing break and notice the difference in your energy.
That extra oxygen is why you also feel better after taking
a walk or exercising.

By taking breathing breaks whenever you are confronted with
a stress provoking situation, you can turn the everyday
problems of daily life into opportunities to improve your
health. You can take advantage of traffic jams, difficult
people, and long lines by using them as reminders - to
BREATHE!