Most of us know that taking a deep breath feels good but did you know these other important effects of a deep breath?
1. Taking a deep breath can cue us to come back to the present moment
We spend so much of our lives not paying attention to what is happening around us. Anxious or worried thoughts take us into the future while other thoughts take us into the past.
But what about what’s happening now? Let’s live the moment we’re in rather than letting it pass by unnoticed.
While we’re noticing the present moment, let’s also notice that we’re okay in this moment, we’re safe in this moment. We don’t need to spend our time in the past or the future – places we can’t control fully. Instead, let’s be fully alive in the moment we have.
2. Getting more oxygen to our brains
More oxygen to the brain gives us better clarity of mind and the ability to solve problems better. ‘Nuff said.
3. Our heart rate slows down as we exhale
I don’t think I need to explain this one. Even when we’re slightly stressed or anxious, our heart rates can go up to an uncomfortable pace.
Taking a deep breath in and then letting it out fully helps to slow our anxious hearts and calm our minds.
4. Taking a deep breath stimulates the system that calms us
There is a nerve that travels through our body called the vagus nerve. It is a part of the parasympathetic nervous system, the system that helps to calm us. One of the things that stimulates the vagus nerve is expanding the diaphragm. And what expands the diaphragm? A deep breath!
*Note: the best way to take a deep breath is to breathe in through the nose and let it go out through the mouth. You can exhale all in one big sigh or let your breath out slowly. Both seem to be productive ways to yield the benefits of the exhalation.
*Second note: Don’t take too many deep breaths at once – you’ll hyperventilate!
Zoe Campos says
It’s interesting to know that getting enough oxygen can actually allow our minds to think with better clarity. This is probably why anxious people who run out of breath whenever faced with a situation can’t think properly. I think it would be better for them to consult a specialist and also have their nervous system checked for better diagnosis and treatment.