Breathe All Your Worries Away with These Easy Exercises!

By Better Health Research Team • Nov 26th, 2009 • Category: Health E-Hint

One of the simplest acts we do every day is breathing. The constant flow of oxygen in and out of our lungs can have dozens of health benefits beyond our respiratory system. According to the Textbook of Natural Medicine, deep breathing and regular breathing exercises can help lower your blood pressure levels, slow your rising heart rate and aid in digestion.

When you repeatedly take long, deep breaths, your body releases endorphins, which are hormones that act as your body’s natural painkillers. They can help relieve headaches, sleeplessness, backaches and other stresses associated with aches and pains.

To practice deep breathing exercises, find a quiet peaceful place in your home or outdoors. Sit in a comfortable position and place one hand on your chest and one hand just below your ribs on your belly. You can keep your eyes open or closed. Breathe in deeply through your nose, and you should feel your belly expand. Then slowly exhale through your mouth. Each cycle should last about 10 to 15 seconds—all the while try to imagine letting go of all your stress and tension.

By repeating these and other breathing exercises, your worries may simply disappear into thin air!