What are the real powers of breathing on our bodies?
by Christelle Marchetti | On January, 18 2024 |
Breathing well means (re)taking control of your body and mind. Breathing is natural and innate, and we pay little attention to it in our daily lives.
But our breathing evolves with our day and its challenges, and most of the time we breathe in restricted mode. To maintain vitality, it’s vital to breathe regularly and efficiently! Discover the unsuspected powers of breathing!
The 11 unsuspected powers of breathing...
Feeds and strengthens the brain
Oxygen deficiency greatly affects the brain. The brain alone consumes 25% of the air we breathe in. This organ therefore needs quality air to function. When oxygen is lacking, the brain is the first to suffer.
Detoxifying the body
Toxins and metabolic waste are eliminated from the body with each breath, thanks to the oxygen inhaled and the carbon dioxide released. This detoxification is only possible with deep, sustained breathing.
Increases oxygen in the blood
Breathing provides oxygen and eliminates carbon dioxide. It promotes gas exchange, enabling the whole body to function properly. Poor oxygenation of the blood leads to respiratory insufficiency, which, if left untreated, can quickly lead to complications.
Anchored in the present moment
Breathing has a spiritual dimension, enabling us to take our place in the world, to grow, to occupy space and to anchor ourselves firmly in the present moment.
It reduces stress
Breathing calms the body and mind. Stressed people often have short, jerky breathing, but to benefit from its anti-stress powers, it must be deep and abdominal. Breathe slowly and deeply through the belly, then inhale for 3 seconds, hold the air in your lungs for 10 seconds, then exhale through the mouth for 5 seconds before exhaling as deeply as possible.
Improves posture
Breathing contributes to good posture, which in turn improves oxygenation of the body. Inhaling deeply straightens the body and frees the ribcage. The lungs and diaphragm are freer to move.
Helps manage emotions
Breathing helps regulate emotions. Breathing well before a job interview helps to anchor you in reality, reduce stress and channel energy.
Strengthens the immune system
Breathing oxygenates the body optimally, promotes healthy exchanges and boosts the immune system. To be effective, breathing must be abdominal and associated with a healthy lifestyle.
Improves concentration
Certain breathing methods, such as those found in sophrology, help to regulate breathing cycles and restore optimal levels of attention. Cardiac coherence, in which the heartbeat coincides with the breath, is a method that promotes concentration.
Improves sleep
Breathing brings more oxygen to the nervous system, resulting in a state of relaxation that helps you fall asleep more quickly. Concentrating on your breathing helps you fall asleep.
Improves digestion
Breathing well after meals is important for good digestion. Your breathing should be abdominal: place your hands on your belly, inhale by inflating your ribs, and exhale gently by emptying the air from your belly. A daily practice for transit problems.
Even if breathing is normal, our bodies don’t always receive enough oxygen. It needs deep breathing every day! One of the basic tools used in sophrology is conscious breathing. Breathing exercises help to restore the all-important balance between body and mind. Practices as beneficial for individuals as for groups (services offered).
Next workshop SOPHROESCAPE on Saturday, the 3rd January, in Moncton (in French)
If you'd like to discover what breathing can do for you, come and join us at the next well-being workshop!
