Taking a Breath: Is Healing Really That Easy?

They say we enter this world and leave this world with a breath. So, there is something to be said about the importance of a breath and its relevance to our existence. We know we can't live without oxygen, and for most, breathing is a simple process that just happens without our awareness or effort. 

Yet, when we're experiencing distress, the last thing we want to hear from someone is to "just breathe." Like nails down a chalkboard, it's right up there with someone telling you to "calm down" when you’re experiencing feelings of anxiety, frustration, or anger. 

We know there are benefits to deep breathing when we feel emotionally dysregulated. However, like many self-care techniques, we aren’t always motivated to use it. 

Research shows that it takes twenty minutes to regulate their central nervous system. When you’ve exceeded your “emotional bandwith” and can no longer process or take in information when stressed, it is recommended that you do something productive, such as taking a walk or listening to music, to help you complete your stress response cycle. 

However, this does not mean pacing the floor replaying the argument you just had with your partner, scrolling through social media feeds that include negativity, or calling a friend who tends to keep you fired up. These will hinder your progress and lengthen the time it takes to calm your body.

Despite all the research, it has still taken me years of heartbreak, disappointment, grief, and loss, to finally believe in the strong connection between mindful breathing and self-regulation. It’s been quite a journey, but I’m “drinking the Kool-Aid” because I have seen firsthand how breathing with intention can improve emotional wellness and healing. And thus, Just Breathe Therapy LLC was born.

Taking a breath is fundamental to human life and well-being, both physiologically and psychologically. Here are seven reasons why breathwork is so important to your mental health:

1. Emotional Regulation: Conscious breathing practices, such as mindfulness meditation and deep breathing exercises, can help regulate emotions, reduce anxiety, and promote emotional resilience.

2. Enhancement of Sexual Performance: Efficient breathing techniques can improve endurance, stamina, and overall cardiovascular performance by optimizing oxygen delivery to muscles and reducing fatigue. Deep breathing can lead to longer and more intense orgasms for both men and women because it increases blood flow to the genitals, which can enhance sensitivity and increase arousal.

3. Improved Sleep: Deep breathing before bedtime can help induce relaxation and improve sleep quality by calming the nervous system and reducing nighttime arousal. Sleep-deprivation leads to increased irritability and less patience.

4. Stress Reduction: Deep breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and decreased stress levels. It can help lower heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels, leading to a sense of calm and well-being.

5. Improvement of Cognitive Function: Oxygen is vital for brain function, and proper breathing can enhance cognitive performance, including concentration, memory, and decision-making.

6. Enhanced Immune Function: Adequate oxygenation through proper breathing supports immune function, helping the body fight off infections and illnesses.

7. Promotion of Digestion: Deep breathing can aid in digestion by promoting relaxation of the abdominal muscles and enhancing blood flow to the digestive organs.

Overall, taking a breath is not just a simple physiological act, but a powerful tool for maintaining physical health, managing stress, and promoting overall well-being. Incorporating conscious breathing techniques into daily life can have profound benefits for the mind, body, and spirit. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with emotional regulation, anxiety, anger or excessive stress, reach out today. I will teach you how to relate differently to your emotions and respond vs. react when you experience difficult or intense emotions. 

Let's Connect! 703-570-5035