Creating a blog is not without its moments of frustration, and this suggested an ideal subject for this post: Breathing.
Specifically, breathing to calm down and to clear one’s mind.
One type of breathing is known as diaphragmatic breathing. It involves slow, deep inhalations through the nose, followed by slow, deep exhalations of approximately equal duration.
As the name suggests, diaphragmatic breathing is produced by contraction and relaxation of the diaphragm – the elongated muscle that separates our torsos in half, into thoracic and abdominal cavities.
Inhalations can be energizing. Exhalations release tension. This combination of restorative and relaxing qualities is why deep-breathing exercises are often used for health purposes. It’s also why diaphragmatic breathing is an essential part of yoga.
You can benefit from diaphragmatic breathing throughout the day, without a full exercise routine. Pausing to take even one slow, deep breath when you are experiencing a stressful situation (or walking away from one) can help you relax and refocus your mind. That brief change of perspective might be all you need to soldier on with a refreshed, more positive outlook. Try it.
You can read more about diaphragmatic breathing, and learn how to do it by reading this short article.