Breathing Exercises to Help Your Health

By Stepy Kamei

Many people, myself included, have found quite a few benefits in practicing breathing techniques. It may surprise you to learn that there even need to be "techniques" for breathing. After all, isn't it something we all do naturally (barring health complications such as asthma)? It is, yes, and while you shouldn't have to necessarily think too hard about your breathing, there are ways to improve your physical and mental health by merely taking some time out of your day to focus on deep breathing. Many people find practicing these techniques can greatly benefit their physical, as well as mental, well-being. 

Proper Breathing for Better Posture

Interestingly enough, your breathing can impact the way you stand and sit. You may also not realize that posture can have a big impact on your health. Poor posture has been scientifically linked to higher rates of anxiety, low self-esteem, and pain-related issues such as headaches. 

The simplest way to breathe in a manner that keeps your spine upright is by making sure you are inhaling and exhaling from the belly, through deep belly breathing. You can monitor this by placing both hands on your stomach and feeling the breath move your belly up and down in a slow and steady pace. 

Deep Breathing for Anxiety and Stress

This type of breathing can also greatly help to reduce stress and anxiety, which in turn can improve the health of your spine and the rest of your body. When you feel stress, your muscles tense up involuntarily, which can cause strains to occur within the muscles supporting the spinal column. 

Often, anxiety is exacerbated by hyperventilating, which also occurs involuntarily. By learning how to slow down your breath, and breathing from the belly rather than the chest, you may be able to keep serious anxiety at bay. 

How Chiropractic Can Help Even More

Of course, it always helps to have a professional monitor your health and wellness, so be sure to keep up with your doctor's appointments on a regular basis. It may also help to consult with a chiropractor at your nearest location of The Joint Chiropractic clinics. A chiropractor can bring about immediate relief from issues including insomnia, back pain, and digestive issues, through the use of safe and natural techniques. A chiropractor can also help you work on ways to live a healthier lifestyle overall, for better long-term health. Unlike your general practitioner, you can walk into The Joint anytime during their extended weekday and weekend hours.

To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lakewood, Colo.