Conscious breathing as a natural relaxant

Proper breathing as a natural relaxant

05/01/2014

Breathing says a lot about our inner state of tension. When we are under stress or in a hurry, she often becomes flat and hectic. Through conscious breathing, we can influence such reactions.

Actively influence breathing
Breathing says a lot about our inner state of tension. When we are in a hurry or under pressure, it usually becomes unconsciously flat and hectic. In contrast to other typical physical stress reactions, such as pulse rate, blood pressure or blood sugar, however, we can actively influence the breathing itself.

Courses with Far Eastern techniques
Dr. Ulrich Ott, psychologist and neuroscientist at the University of Giessen explained in the „pharmacy magazine“ (1/2014 A): „Breathing, vegetative arousal and emotions are closely related.“ Breathing has a direct influence on what we can not control. Conscious breathing as a natural sedative is possible at any time and in any place and therefore it is worth practicing it. Especially in Far Eastern techniques such as yoga, Qigong or meditation, many trainers include proper breathing in their courses.

Classic among the breathing exercises
There are a number of breathing exercises that can achieve a sense of relaxation within a few minutes. On „classic“ is the deliberate counting of breaths, for example, each breathed in and out for four seconds. It is important not to put yourself under pressure during such an exercise or to hold your breath for too long - instead you should inhale through the nose as calmly and evenly as possible and through the mouth. The aim is to consciously perceive the breathing, it often helps to put your hand on the stomach and inhale deeply - as if you want a pleasant fragrance „inhale“. Also the exhalation should be as intense as possible, often it helps to imagine how to blow out a candle. Nevertheless, it is important to keep the right amount - so to increase from time to time, but not to overburden. (Ad)

Picture: Rainer Sturm