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Tips to Breathe Better

Breathing is not something most people think about when they do it; it just comes naturally. However, to enhance health, it can help to learn how to optimize your breathing instead of breathing too quickly or shallowly. Proper breathing (deeper and slower breaths) can improve the functioning of the heart and lungs and also decrease symptoms of panic and anxiety.

  1. Fewer Breaths

    • For healthy breathing, it can be a good idea to have a goal in place. Many people take too many breaths every minute, so aim for a smaller amount --- like six. When you take your six breaths, focus and concentrate on them instead of rushing them, which can lead to shallow-breathing patterns. Draw out your breaths by deeply inhaling and taking a longer time to exhale.

    Breathing Exercises

    • Find the time to conduct breathing exercises on a daily basis, whether it's in the morning or just before you go to bed at night. Set side about five minutes to concentrating on expanding your breaths and fully contracting your diaphragm. Apart from assisting you with proper breathing length and technique, it can be an effective stress-relieving activity as well.

    Stop Squeezing

    • One common mistake people often make is, upon inhalation, squeezing the stomach in. If you keep your belly relaxed and soft instead of squeezing it, you will permit the full expansion of your diaphragm and your lungs instead of limiting how much oxygen you can take in --- which squeezing your stomach in can cause.

    Posture

    • Proper posture is also key to healthy breathing technique. Always keep your posture straight and your shoulders unhunched. Shoulders that are hunched can lead to the obstruction of energy and blood traveling to the brain. Keep your shoulders relaxed and loose, and open up your chest to get the most out of your breaths.

    Lifestyle

    • Living a healthy lifestyle can also greatly enhance the way you breathe. Stay away from noxious irritants and smoke odors. Drink sufficient water --- about eight glasses a day --- and consume a diet that is well-balanced and rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits and lean meats.

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