breath of fresh air.

One of the most simple techniques to combat anxiety and panic almost instantly is breathing. This is something we do every second of every day. It doesn't cost a dime, it's discrete and has many health benefits beyond just calming our minds and heart.

I'm not a person who meditates. I've tried many times, but it doesn't do enough or allow for my brain to truly relax. It can have almost the opposite effect on me.

Some of the many benefits of "belly breathing" versus your chest:

1. Slows heart rate quickly

2. Relaxes whole body

3. Allows for more (pure) oxygen into your lungs

4. Relaxes muscle spasms and relieves tension

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THE G O L D E N TECHNIQUE:

Breathe IN through your nose for 4 seconds while pushing your belly out.

(DON'T HOLD YOUR BREATH)

Breathe OUT through your mouth for at least 6 seconds while pushing your belly in & relaxing your body.

image credit: https://webstockreview.net/startdownload.html

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Also called: Abdominal Breathing, Diaphragmatic Breathing

When it comes to healing anything a "one size fits all" mentality isn't helpful. Learning this technique can take some time. When I first started learning (I still do this at times) I would lay on my back and put a book on my stomach. This allows you to visualize instead of just feel the amount of movement to make sure you are breathing through your abdomen and not your chest.

Give it a try! Have questions or other methods you like to use?! Comment below or send me a message.

Thanks for reading :)

Carley C