Breath = Life. Are you Breathing Deep?

Since returning to work this last month as a Licensed (Medical) Massage Therapist one of the most common issues presenting since this pandemic began is lack of deep breathing. In fact these days my experience is that most people are, energetically speaking, only about 50% in their physical bodies. Why would this be? Stress and over-worrying. Understandably so, all things considered. But the long term health affects of this situation will only spiral into numerous other physical, emotional, and mental health issues if not addressed sooner than later.

While I can work one-on-one to help people get back into their breath, back in touch with their physical body and their peaceful place, the challenge is how to reach greater numbers of people? Perhaps you will find this blog useful and pass it on to your friends and people in need, especially those with asthma and/or PTSD.

Pranayama is a gentle breathing exercise that balances the body overall. Daily practice has shown it can increase lung capacity, immunity, sleep, digestion, elimination, and reduce pain, all through the breath!

In practicing this method you may find that one sinus is easier to breathe through than the other at different times of day. Aside from any impinging sinus issues this difference is sinus capacity is perfectly normal.

I really like Kavita Maharaj’s introductory video on how and why to perform Pranayama. She careful addresses the details so you practice safely and comfortably:

And in this video she demonstrates Pranayama breathing:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCK1jBfRVsE

In the science article linked below you can read about why nasal breathing is actually very beneficial for increasing Nitric Oxide (NO). What is it and why should you care? Nitric Oxide is a naturally occurring, colorless gas in the body that increases blood flow and vasodilation which, in turn, improves cardiovascular health, reduces risks of blood clots, and improves cognitive function. It’s also derived from certain foods, namely:

red beets
leafy greens: arugula (best nitric oxide booster of leafy greens), chard, spinach and lettuce
endive
leeks
radishes
celery
broccoli
fennel
Chinese cabbage
turnips
cucumbers
carrots
cauliflower
herbs, like parsley and dill
pomegranate juice
oranges
bananas

(food list courtesy of Mens Health Mag)

Excerpt: “Studies indicate that NO may also help to reduce respiratory tract infection by inactivating viruses and inhibiting their replication in epithelial cells.”
Science behind the benefits of nasal breathing
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1286457920300800

If you’re enjoying this blog and would like to reciprocate with a monetary contribution I warmly support your gift. Please visit paypal.me/reginachante.

Much love and appreciation!