Deep Breathing
Deep breathing is an often overlooked exercise. Go ahead, take a deep breath. In, out. Did you raise your shoulders as your chest expanded, and did the air rush out of your lungs in a big whoosh? I hope not, because you body will reap much more benefit if you slow the process down.
A deep breath in should fill your belly; your shoulders should not move. Belly breathing targets the diaphragm, allowing the lower lobes of your lungs to expand and fill with oxygen. An exhale should be twice as slow. This signals to your body to let down it’s guard and resume a more relaxed state.
Breathing into your belly increases the oxygen levels in the blood, which can lead to increased energy, lower stress levels, better nourished organs, improved digestion, and increased mental clarity.
How do you know if you breathing correctly? Place your hand over your belly and take a slow breath in. Your hand will move out considerably as your belly expands.