The Importance of Deep Breathing

Oxygen is the most important nutrient for our health and well-being. The body requires oxygen for the function and survival of every cell. We could survive for a few weeks without food and a few days without water, but we could only survive for a few minutes without air.

We obtain oxygen by inhaling air into our lungs. The quantity of oxygen that we receive in our lungs depends on how we breathe and on the quality of the air that we take in. Exhalation is one of the primary ways the body eliminates wastes and toxins.

Today we live in a more stressful environment, and we oftentimes hold our breath or take shallow breaths without being aware of it. Physical problems occur when we do not inhale or exhale completely or if the quality of the air is poor. Although breathing is automatic, you can consciously improve the way that you breathe to improve your overall health. The amount of oxygen available to the body has a significant impact on health and wellness. Since the body must have enough oxygen to work optimally, a deficiency of oxygen contributes to many physical ailments.

Improving the way you breathe and the quality of the air you take in can increase your energy level, improve your sleep, decrease pain, increase joint mobility, balance blood sugar levels, lower blood pressure, enhance circulation of oxygen to all parts of your body and help to eliminate waste products and toxins from your body. The action of breathing also helps to stimulate your digestive system and the lymphatic system, both of which play a role in detoxification and elimination.

It is recommended that you take 100 conscious breaths daily. They can be done periodically throughout the day- while sitting in traffic, before meals, during your castor oil pack, before you go to bed or any other time that works for you. Breathe in for a count of six through your nose until you feel your abdomen rise completely. Hold for a count of one and then exhale for a count of eight through pursed lips. Repeat this technique throughout the day for a total of 100 deep breaths.