A Deep Inhale

Why does a deep breath sometimes feel so good, feel so relaxing. Try it now, as you sit there. Place one hand on your stomach and take a deep breath...hold it for a second...and release it slowly. Try it again. This time, take a moment to feel your stomach muscles tighten and flatten on the inhale...then relax on the exhale. How does this feel?

Deep, intentional breathing signals to your nervous system to relax..to slow down..to calm your mind. It shifts your nervous system out of the "fight or flight" mode it may be stuck in. Try a deep breath again. How do you feel now?

5 minutes a day of deep breathing can improve symptoms of anxiety and depression, reduce stress and feelings of overwhelm, boost your mood and sharpen your focus. It can also act as an anchor to help soothe feelings associated with grief, trauma and intense emotional reactions.

Deep breathing is further enhanced by closing your eyes and allowing the sensation of yourself to be pulled down into the Earth. Many of you may have heard of grounding...a practice where you feel the energy of the Earth beneath you. Where you connect with the Earth and all the amazing qualities the earth provides for us. Take a moment again to take a deep, intentional breath and on the exhale...intentionally push that breath down into the earth. How does that feel?

Why not challenge yourself to deep breathe for 5 minutes a day for the next 1-2 weeks, taking note how you feel before and then again how you feel after the two weeks. I would love to hear how you feel. What changes or benefits did you experience?