The Importance of Deep Breathing for Health

Diaphragmatic breathing, often called deep breathing, is the healthiest way to breathe. Even though it may feel unnatural at first, deep breathing has many benefits, physical, mental and emotional.

Stress

• When you encounter a stressful situation, you begin to take shorter and more shallow breaths. This is what triggers a stress response in your mind. Taking deep breaths can reverse this process.

Anxiety

• Anxiety is often caused by frequent shallow breathing. Breathing deeply can calm you down and prevent panic attacks.

Oxygen Flow

• Deep breathing promotes better oxygen flow to the brain, as well as balancing the intake of oxygen and the output of carbon dioxide.

Headaches

• Headaches may become less frequent while practicing deep breathing, especially if they were caused by tension.

Blood Pressure

• Breathing deeply can also lower blood pressure. This is an effect of the improved oxygen flow that comes with deep breathing.

Heart Rate

• While frequent heart racing can be a sign of a medical problem, sometimes it is caused by stress or tension. Diaphragmatic breathing may slow the heart rate down to a normal level.