Just Breathe. How many times have we heard that? Sounds simple, right?
Well maybe not, join me in taking a closer look at a newer, popular trend: Breath work. Did you know that 90% of us are using less than 50% of our breathing capacity? Yes, most of us are “shallow” breathing throughout our day and don't even realize it. When I'm at my desk racing through emails and feeling time pressures, I find myself either holding my breath or tensing my neck and shoulders and breathing mainly from my upper chest. Did you know this is a very ineffective way to breathe? If I asked you to stop right now and take a really deep breath, chances are good you would lift up your shoulders as you do a long, deep inhale. NOT EFFECTIVE. “Optimal” breathing starts down in our bellies and works its way up. Our belly will expand like a balloon that's being blown up. Our shoulders barely need to move. So what's the big deal you ask? Shallow breathing does not fuel our bodies with adequate oxygen and energy. Your breath is a sure fire way to dive deep into your state of health, and improve your health if you've plateaued. If you're lacking energy in your body, you need only look into your breathing patterns. Your breath affects everything! Your mental clarity, digestion, metabolism, how your cells function, circulation, and sleep. In “yogi” terms, the formal practice of controlling our breath is called “Pranayama.” This is the source of our prana, or “vital life force.” So in conclusion, if you want to optimize your health, enjoy more consistent energy levels throughout your day, and improve your overall performance, then learn how to optimize your breath. Optimal breathing will give you mental clarity, thus helping you manage your emotions and provide you with a steady flow of energy. Would you like to learn more and start an amazing breathing journey with me?
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