The Understated Power of Breathing

Proper breathing is so important when it comes to weight, energy, metabolism and hormonal health.

Breathe through your nose not your mouth. When you breathe through your mouth you activate the sympathetic(flight or fight) nervous system. When you breathe through your nose you activate the parasympathetic nervous system(rest and digest).

So when you’re breathing through your mouth you will trigger the sympathetic nervous system which will trigger the adrenal glands to release cortisol. Chronic cortisol “ results in weight gain around the abdomen.

All healing occurs in the parasympathetic state so breathe through your nose. You want to focus on deep long breaths. 6 seconds in and 6 seconds out through your nose.

1. Diaphragm breathe

One of the most effective exercise to lose weight, diaphragm breathing makes your abdominal muscles flexible. Engaging your diaphragm while breathing increases your lung capacity. Also, this is one of the best exercises for toning your abs.

2. Kapalabhati (Skull Shining Breath)

This breathing method strengthens the muscles of the stomach and relieves respiratory problems. To perform this exercise, sit in a comfortable position and inhale deeply and hold the muscles of your stomach even while you exhale. You can do this 10 times and come back to normal breathing for 5 seconds. Repeat the whole process three times.

3. Belly breathe

Breathing from your belly focuses on your diaphragm and the muscles below your lungs. The exercise boosts your stamina, energy and is also said to cure anxiety problems. This exercise should not be practised for a particular duration but the whole day.

4. Mouth breathe

When you breathe through your mouth it pressurizes the abdominal muscles, it does only give you a refreshed and relaxed feeling but also helps you lose belly fat. By doing this exercise you will not only get rid of the unwanted fat around your belly but also tone your cheeks and chin.