Many people tend to view breathing merely as a means of living, overlooking its deeper significance. But in fact, taking a deep breath can help people deal with various problems throughout the body. For example, stress is a physiological and psychological response to a difficult situation that strains our mental health. Using proper breathing techniques has physiological and psychological benefits, which helps people manage stress and their physical condition.
When it comes to breathing, the diaphragm, a muscle located beneath the chest, plays a crucial role. Diaphragmatic breathing is a breathing technique that incorporates using the diaphragm to take in deep breaths. A study done by experts compared people who practice diaphragmatic breathing with people who breathe normally, and found that people who practiced the breathing technique accomplish slower respiration, which helps people in reducing stress and relaxing during tense situations.
Not only do breathing techniques help mentally, but they also have a positive effect on the body. Performing deep breathing after a workout boosts the body’s ability to recover, reducing fatigue. Furthermore, “deep breathing can help calm the nervous system, thus reducing feelings of stress and anxiety after exercise” (Bentley 2023). Additionally, deep breathing can improve the body’s blood pressure regulation and heart rate variability, which reduces the risk of heart-related diseases and facilitates a person’s well-being.
Did you know that breathing exercises also reduce anxiety levels? For example, a study was conducted where university students took a session of mindful breathing practices and were questioned for six days on their level of test anxiety and positive thought compared to students who didn’t take the session. The results of the study showed that breathing exercises were successful in reducing test anxiety and significantly more effective in increasing positive automatic thoughts. Based on the result, implementing breathing exercises into a student’s life will not only help them during exams but will also increase their positive thoughts throughout their day.
Breathing, such a simple mechanism, is not only a means to survive but a powerful tool for strengthening both mental and physical health. Various breathing techniques can have positive affects such as reducing stress, fatigue, anxiety, relaxation and encouraging positive thoughts. So remember, the next time you are stressed, take a deep breath.
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