Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Take My Breath Away

In sitting at a team activity at my agency, there was a portion of the activity that was dedicated to meditation with an emphasis on breathing correctly. I began a minor conversation in my head questioning how does one breathe correctly. I mean, I am blessed to breathe every day that I am permitted by my heavenly father so what’s the big deal. For many, breathing is second nature and the only time one may truly focus on their breathing is during a physical when the physician request that you take the three deep breath series and listens intensely. Well, I willingly opened myself to this activity and after 10 minutes of breathing correctly I fell asleep only to be awaken by the person sitting next to me. I was truly astonished that something that we do every day could have such an impact. Allow me to provide you with a few breathing exercise tips that could benefit your overall wellness.

Breathing incorrectly can produce tension, exhaustion and vocal strain, interfere with athletic activity and encourage aches and illness

Consider Breathing as a form of exercise-Dedicate 3-5 minutes to complete a breathing exercise.

Make yourself as comfortable as possible. This includes music, pillows, scented items of your choice.

As you breathe naturally, when you inhale your lungs should fill with air (sneak a hand on the stomach and if you stomach extends out you are on the right track). In exhaling you are releasing the air in the lungs(sneak a hand on the stomach and your stomach should be moving inward).

As you become comfortable with the above breathing exercise you may try other methods of breathing such as:

Deep Breathing

(1) Sit or stand straight, pull your elbows back firmly, and inhale deeply.

(2) Hold your breath for 5 counts

(3) Exhale slowly and completely

Cleansing sigh

(1)sitting or standing with appropriate posture.

(2) Let out a gentle noise as you inhale deeply

(3)Sigh as much as your body will allow

(4) Repeat five to fifteen times

Breathing is essential to life why not do it correctly! Live well Glami’s…