Implementing regular breathwork into your daily routines can have monumental effects on your overall health and wellness.

The breath cycle allows the heart and lungs to pump oxygenated blood throughout the body which fuels our cells to carry out the functions that keep us alive. The ancient yoga practice of controlling the breath is called Pranayama and involves consciousness and awareness of the breath. Continue reading to learn the importance of breathwork and breathing well:

What is Breathwork?

Breathwork is the practice of utilizing techniques that focus on the intentional use of breath. While our body unconsciously drives our breathing patterns throughout the day, when we are stressed, our breathing patterns can suffer. When you do breathwork and practice breathing intentionally, you can learn to release toxins and stress as you exhale and nourish your body as you inhale.

Benefits of Breathwork:

Breathwork can significantly impact a person’s physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health.

– Lowering blood pressure
– Improving sleep quality
– Reducing stress levels
– Improving respiratory function
– Boosting immune system
– Reducing feelings of anxiety and depression
– Improving focus
– Improving outlook on life
– Boost feelings of gratitude and joy

One of the best aspects of utilizing breathwork as a healing practice is that it can be achieved anytime, anywhere, with no equipment needed. As long as you have a few minutes to spare and a desire to focus on your breathing techniques, you can integrate breathwork into your lifestyle and enjoy the benefits for yourself.

Breathwork Exercises You Can Do Anywhere

There are several breathwork techniques you can try to enhance your mental capacity and promote optimal health.

– Deep abdominal breathing

You may have heard that there is a difference between breathing into your chest and breathing deeper into your stomach, and the truth is, the latter allows both your belly and chest to expand as you inhale and fill up your body. As you exhale fully and pull your navel into your spine, this form of deep breathing encourages relaxation.

– Alternate nostril breathing

Alternate nostril breathing is exactly what it sounds like. Begin by using your finger to cover your right nostril and breathe in deeply using only your left nostril. After you have inhaled, hold your breath, and switch your finger to the left nostril as you exhale through your right nostril. This breathing technique encourages overall balance in the body and mind.

– Lion’s breath

Lion’s breath or breath of fire is a more advanced breathing technique. As you inhale, your abdominal muscles are relaxed, but as you exhale, tighten your core to physically press the air out of your body. This type of breathing encourages a sense of steadiness.

Taking time in your day to prioritize breathwork is one of the best gifts you can offer yourself. It is completely free to improve your life through breathing techniques, and with so many physical and mental benefits, there is no reason you can’t start changing your life through mindfulness today. If you are interested in learning more about the value of breathing well, head to Outrun Gravity for more holistic health tips.