Breath is the Essence of Life: Learn different breathing techniques

The human body can survive three weeks without food, three days without water and only three minutes without air.

Breathing through our nose filters the air and cleans it perfectly for use to enters our lungs.

Breathing is something the body does automatically and the way we breathe changes depending on our state of mind and how we feel. You can observe how your breathing pattern changes with your emotions and in various situations. When we feel stressed or fearful we tend to take fast and shallow breaths, whereas when we are relaxed and at ease we breathe gently and more steadily.

The way we breathe can be actively controlled by simply focusing on the breath and how we are breathing. For example, when we breathe gently we send a signal to the body that says I am relaxed, safe and well.

Then the body produces less stress hormones and increases feel good hormones/endorphins, affecting our nervous system, hormone production, fight-flight response, stress levels, heartbeat and rate, blood pressure and digestion.

If you are looking to explore the benefits of breath work there is so much available online, providing something for everyone.

This list is a good starting point:

1. Diaphragmatic Breathing: Enhances relaxation and reduces stress.

2. 4-7-8 Breathing: Quickly calms the mind, ideal for stress relief.

3. Alternate Nostril Breathing: Balances the mind and body, reducing anxiety.

4. Box Breathing: Improves focus and calms nerves in stressful situations.

5. Pursed Lip Breathing: Simple technique for slowing down breathing and easing stress.

6. Coherent Breathing: Harmonises body systems, reducing anxiety and improving heart health.

7. Belly Breathing: Fundamental for deep relaxation and stress management.