Breathing is the most prominent sign of our survival. Our breath pattern changes according to our actions as well as thoughts. For example, a worrisome thought instantly changes our breath to shallow and heavy breathing. On the contrary, if we are relaxed our breath is comparatively deep and easy. Breathing deep allows us to use the full capacity of our lungs, hence promoting the proper functioning of the body as well as the mind.

Here are some reasons why you should not underestimate the power of proper breath work.

1. Breathing and heart health
   Breathing and heart rate are closely related. Most importantly we can also voluntarily control how we breathe. In today’s fast-paced world where we keep juggling between multiple tasks our stress levels rise and we struggle to keep a check on our mental and heart health. Deep breathing can help to shift from ‘fight or flight’ to ‘rest and digest’ mode. This can help regulate heart rate and blood flow in the body.
2. Skin and hair benefits
   Breathing deep ensures proper oxygen supply to our body. With the skin being the largest organ of the body, a good oxygen supply benefits the skin as well as the hair. So do not miss that extra glow on your skin obtained from a long deep breath.
3. Posture benefits
   As we inhale deeper, we use more capacity of our lungs than shallow breathing. If done consciously it can help us to straighten our posture. Who wouldn’t want to use this additional benefit and acquire some extra social confidence 🙂
4. Anxiety
   Different breathing techniques are well known for reducing anxiety and stress levels. If we can reduce some stress and anxiety using these methods, we can certainly perform better and also make these practices a part of our routine.

You can choose any breathing-enhancing exercises like Box breathing, 4-7-8 breathing, Pranayam, yoga with proper breathwork or even Vipassana and try to make it a part of your daily routine.

Apart from the above benefits, needless to mention the role of breathing right during high-stress situations, childbirth labor, developing mind concentration and the list goes on. Breathe deep and make the most of this free gift given to us by mother nature.