Breathing is a simple yet powerful tool that can bring about profound changes in our mind and body. By taking just a few minutes to focus on our breath, we can shift from a state of stress and tension to one of relaxation and calmness.
When we’re in a “fight or flight” mode, our parasympathetic nervous system is activated, causing our muscles to tense up and our heart rate to increase. But by lengthening our breath and focusing on the sensation of air moving in and out of our body, we can trigger the opposite response – a state of relaxation and restoration.
This technique is particularly useful for managing stress and anxiety, as it allows us to become more aware of our body’s physical sensations and respond to them in a more mindful way. By taking deep breaths, we can calm our nervous system, relax our muscles, and even lower our blood pressure.
The good news is that this exercise requires no equipment or facility – just a few minutes of your time and attention. You can do it anywhere, at any time, as long as you’re breathing!
To try this technique for yourself, join Dr. Brandon Yabko in his 3-minute breathing space meditation. Simply focus on the sensation of each breath, allowing yourself to relax and let go of tension with each exhalation.
By prioritizing a few minutes of breathing practice every day, you can take control of your well-being and cultivate a greater sense of mindfulness and relaxation in your life.
Source: https://news.va.gov/137658/live-whole-health-256-unlock-relaxation-with-intentional-breathing