Breathing is connected to how we feel.
When we’re upset, our breath is fast and uneven, but when we’re calm, it’s slow and gentle. We can use our breath to explore how we feel in our body and change it. Even when we’re very upset or uncomfortable, we can release tension by breathing slowly and evenly.
Here are 4 ways how using our breath can help us manage symptoms:
- Internal Massage: When we breathe deeply, it’s like giving our insides a massage. Our diaphragm moves, creating changes in pressure in our belly, which helps our organs work well. This can ease problems like nausea, constipation, and bloating.
- Balance for the Nervous System: Slow, deep breaths activate the Vagus nerve and brings balance to our Autonomic Nervous System.
- Boosts Brain Function: When our heart and lungs work together in sync, it’s great for our brain and other organs. Slow, deep breaths improve blood flow to the brain, help us think better, fight fatigue, and improve our attention.
- Transforming Sensations: Breathing can help us change uncomfortable feelings. Just like women giving birth use breath to ease cramping, we can breathe into tight or uncomfortable body parts and imagine them opening up.