It may sound too simple to actually work, but
studies show that breathing correctly, deeply and slowly for about 15 minutes a day can improve your health over time. According to the
studies, it can reduce high blood pressure, stress, anxiety, aid in digestion, increase alertness and decrease fatigue. It can even reduce tension headaches and migraines. Here is a quick overview.
The position of our body changes our breathing. We compress the abdomen by sitting and leaning forward which pushes the diaphragm up into the chest area. The amount of air that can be inhaled is reduced. This position is common with desk work.
Like an engine, the human body draws in air containing oxygen. The lungs absorb oxygen into the blood to be transferred to cells for combustion to produce energy. Carbon dioxide is the product of this combustion and is exhaled by the lungs.
Shallow breathing leaves a large amount of air in the lungs that has a low level of oxygen and a high level of carbon dioxide. By depriving the body of oxygen, the heart will automatically compensate by pumping more blood – an action that raises blood pressure.
A breathing rate that is too rapid, hyperventilation, results from an excessive amount of oxygen in the blood. A rate that is too slow will deprive the body of oxygen and send the heart into action to increase the pulse rate and blood pressure.
By following some simple techniques, you can breathe slower, deeper and more effectively. You can be physically sitting in the office but your mind and body will feel a thousand miles away. After a few weeks of regular use, you’ll feel better and have lowered your blood pressure!
