Breathe to nourish your mind

Most people use only a fraction of their full breathing capacity. A combination of stress, poor posture and long hours behind a desk can attribute to why many people tend to be "chest breathers." Chest breathing creates an imbalance in the oxygen/carbon dioxide ratio. For optimal health, breathing should be full and rhythmic using the diaphragm and ribs to fill and empty the lungs. Deep abdominal breathing promotes a full exchange of air, keeping the oxygen/carbon dioxide ratio balanced. Proper breathing soothes the nervous system, clears the mind, improves concentration, focuses attention, and increases the ability to deal with complex situations without suffering from stress.

- Maura Hintlian, RYT