You would think that by now most of us know how to breathe... I mean, we are still alive, right?! Yet most of us take shallow breaths, inhaling just as much oxygen as we need to stay alive. Believe it or not, breathing deeply into your belly — “diaphragmatic breathing” — for just 5 to 10 minutes a day can slow the aging process, improve your mental focus, lower your blood pressure, and improve your sleep quality. Doesn't that sound like exactly what you need? I know I do!
So, here is how you do it... lie on your back, close your eyes, think good thoughts, and send big, deep breaths to your belly. When you breathe in, your stomach should inflate like a balloon. When you release the air, your stomach should deflate. Here's a tip to help you figure out this different way of breathing: Place a moderately heavy object, like a book, on your belly, and notice it rise and fall with each breath. Practice makes perfect.
You will feel the results sooner than you think! Give it a try...and breathe easier!