Relax shoulders and take a deep breath in. Now release it. You may already feel a sense of relief. Our respiratory system logs around 20,000 breaths daily. These breaths affect our entire body and while our breaths may be unconsciously produced much like blood flowing in our body, breathing is the body’s most important function. When we breathe, we send oxygen into our body’s cells.
4 types of breathing exercises to add to your daily routine
Pursed lip breathing: This breathing tech is good for individuals living with lung conditions such as asthma. Begin by breathing in through your nose and breathing out through pursed lips. Make sure breath out is twice as long as the breath in.
Deep breathing: Inhale slowly, filling lungs, exhale slowly, emptying lungs. This breathing technique is an effective way to handle stressful situations or help feel calm.
Equal breathing: This technique focuses on our inhales and exhales being the same length.
Diaphragmatic breathing: begin by placing your hands on your abdomen and breathe in through your nose until your stomach rises. Breathe out through your nose for twice as log. This breathing technique can help strengthen the lungs. Don’t forget to relax your neck + shoulders.
How to incorporate breathwork into your day
-Set alarms or plan specific times of the day when you will perform breathing exercises.
-Start small. Set easy goals for yourself by starting with 2–4-minute sessions. Increase the length of time once you create a habit.