Breathing. It seems like a simple concept doesn’t it? I mean, our autonomic nervous system handles this function without a glimmer of thought on our part, so why should we make a conscious choice to inhale? As humans we allow stress, time, detail, family, work, and on and on to interfere with pure mindfulness of taking care of our bodies. For example, when you concentrate on tasks, computer work and things requiring a great deal of your attention, holding the breath or developing shallow breathing is the norm. The result? Low energy, decreased focus, bodily functions slow and all of this can result in a sour mood or even depressive symptoms. You just took a breath, didn’t you?
Conscious deep breathing also helps to detoxify your body! If you read the article about dry brushing, you likely remember the importance of our lymphatic system and how it helps usher out toxins and waste from our bodies. Imagine utilizing these two in conjunction with your infrared sauna. Periodically deep breathing, while you are sitting or lying down in the gentle heat of an infrared sauna, could help with the detoxification process even further. Then, when you get home and utilize the dry brush before your shower to remove the toxins shed on your skin, it provides the 1-2 punch you have been looking for!
Here is are some steps you can take to increase your health (& state of mind!)
- First, sit up straight. Your mom was correct when she told you to watch your posture. Slouching and compressing your middle downwards interferes with organs and in particular, digestion. Not only this, but it can interfere with your lungs’ ability to take in a big, much-needed breath.
- Second, relax your shoulders. You didn’t even realize they were tense, did you?
Place your feet squarely on the floor – no crossed legs. - Now inhale through your nose trying to expand your belly (not raise your shoulders) Hold the breath for 2-3 seconds, then slowly exhale through your mouth using your stomach to push the air out. Repeat up to 2 times.
- Perform this brief, but oxygenating routine during your workday. If you set the mindfulness to do it midmorning and again in the afternoon, you could soon find yourself happier and be sailing through your day.
