When was the last time you had to remind yourself to breathe? Sure, you might tell yourself to take a breath before a big competition or after an intense workout or training session. But for most of the day, your body’s nervous system is working 24/7 to make sure that you continue inhaling and exhaling. And you’re not even aware of it.
Part of your body controlling your breathing automatically has to do with how you respond to stress. Whenever your body experiences stress, your breathing rate changes as part of the body’s fight-or-flight response.
If you begin to feel anxiety or fear, your breathing automatically becomes shorter and more shallow. Your body senses this change in breathing and responds by intensifying the physical symptoms of stress. Pausing to take deep, intentional breaths can help to control stress, anger, anxiety, and other negative feelings.
So, the next time you’re feeling nervous or anxious, here are a few reasons to slow down, take some deep breaths, and experience how breathing is a simple way to help ease stress.
1. Breathing decreases blood pressure.
Stress causes your blood pressure to rise, which in turn leads to tightness in your muscles. Deep breaths will slowly lower your blood pressure and relax your muscles.
2. Breathing counteracts the fight-or-flight response.
If you become upset, your breathing involuntarily becomes short or erratic. Purposefully controlling your breath reverses the stress response in your body.
3. Breathing improves your posture.
To open your airways, you’ll notice that you sit more upright. Over time, this practice extends beyond your breath-work and into your daily life.
4. Breathing improves clarity.
Deep, controlled breathing is a form of meditation. Taking a moment each day to focus on your breath can help clear your mind.
If you happen to find yourself in a stressful situation, remind yourself to breathe. This simple technique can help you calm your nerves and help you deal with stress.
At Classic Fight Team in Fountain Valley, we believe that martial arts will better the mind and body of anyone willing to participate. To learn more about what we have to offer and how to get started, contact us today.
