Engaging with your breath can empower you to regulate both your emotional responses and the functioning of your autonomic nervous system. Learning to pay attention to your breathing is a crucial step towards achieving relaxation and managing pain effectively.
To start, simply observe your breath without trying to alter it. Find a comfortable spot, close your eyes, and loosen any tight clothing. Direct your focus to the sensations of inhaling and exhaling, noticing the subtle differences between the two. Make this a daily practice, dedicating at least five minutes to this mindful observation.
As you become more familiar with your breathing patterns, consider shifting your focus to emphasize the exhale. By beginning with intentional exhalations, you can engage your intercostal muscles to expel air from your lungs. This deliberate action allows for deeper relaxation during the subsequent inhalation, enabling a fuller exchange of air.
Consistency is key. Commit to this practice each day, and over time, you’ll find yourself naturally engaging in deeper, more automatic inhalations. This skill is essential for promoting relaxation and overall well-being, benefiting both the body and mind.
References
1. Balban, M. Y., Neri, E., Kogon, M. M., Weed, L., Nouriani, B., Jo, B., Holl, G., Zeitzer, J. M., Spiegel, D., & Huberman, A. D. (2023). Brief structured respiration practices enhance mood and reduce physiological arousal. Cell Reports. Medicine, 4(1), 100895–100895. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xcrm.2022.100895
2. Joseph, A. E., Moman, R. N., Barman, R. A., Kleppel, D. J., Eberhart, N. D., Gerberi, D. J., Murad, M. H., & Hooten, W. M. (2022). Effects of Slow Deep Breathing on Acute Clinical Pain in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine, 27, 2515690X221078006-2515690X221078006. https://doi.org/10.1177/2515690X221078006
3. Toussaint, L., Nguyen, Q. A., Roettger, C., Dixon, K., Offenbächer, M., Kohls, N., Hirsch, J., & Sirois, F. (2021). Effectiveness of Progressive Muscle Relaxation, Deep Breathing, and Guided Imagery in Promoting Psychological and Physiological States of Relaxation. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2021, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/5924040