The thing we probably notice the least in our body, but can have the biggest impact if you pay more attention to how it changes so many different things if done correctly. I'm sure you're thinking what possible difference can it make to pay attention to your breathing, but if you take just a moment and breathe in, then let it out fully, you'll see what I'm talking about. Now if you have a condition that involves your heart or lungs, or if you have a cold or cough, you may have a hard time with this, but who knows, maybe it will help in some way. I don't think there is any time when taking some deep breaths will harm you.
Why talk about breathing, when there isn't much you can change....you're either breathing or you aren't. But it's not exactly true, for when you start to pay attention to how you are breathing, and do it correctly, it can offer physiological changes. These changes can help with pain, inflammation, side effects from chemo or other medications, even help with pre op, as well as post op procedures. Proper breathing can relax and open the body, which allows it to function better, especially when under stress. We're always taught how important it is to drink plenty of water to keep hydrated, keep the kidneys and bowels moving probably, but not as much about breathing. I myself learned many years ago how important the breath is, so it's a major part of my daily routine, especially when trying to lower my pain level, or when having a restless night and can't sleep.
My first experience with the breath was realized when I went through bio-feedback therapy in the early 80's, where a doctor hooks you up to a computer which measures your bodies reaction to stressful situations. I was asked to add numbers, which was always very stressful for me in school, so it was the perfect way to test me out. It didn't take long to see clearly how my heart rate and BP would rise when asked to add or subtract large numbers, and then see how with new breathing techniques and relaxation skills, calm the body down to a more peaceful state. Now I no longer do the bio feedback, though you can find people who still do this, I found relaxation and guided imagery CD's that work better for me at home. Someone is verbally guiding you through breathing and relaxation exercises that slow your breathing, and allow the body to rest completely, and promote healing, or just a sense of well being.
When you're experiencing pain in particular, it's very easy to get locked up physically trying to hold the pain away from you, but actually it makes the pain worse because you're so focused on just getting the pain to stop. And what I find is when the pain gets bad, I tend to stop breathing properly. Normal breaths turn into short, shallow breathing, which is not how our bodies are meant to take in oxygen. So when the pain hits, that's the first line of thinking, change my breathing. Then the breathing helps me to relax the body, therefore easing the pain. Now granted I may still have to take medication for it, depending on the level, but the breathing helps until relief comes.
So for me, the breath is such an important part of what keeps me calm, especially in stressful situations, lessens the pain when it hits, and offers me a more peaceful way of being. It can also minimize side effects of medications, so you can stick with it longer while the body adjusts. And when you have no other choice except to take certain medications, it's nice to find ways that pave the way to healing on some level.
Breathing is the easiest........you can take it anywhere, use it anytime, and best of all.....it's free. All it takes is a few lessons on when and how you want to incorporate it throughout your day, and reap the benefits.
Go ahead.....take a deep breath...........and let it out.
