Stressed Out? Breathe Deeply and Float Free
By Sandy Schroeder
Quick! Think of a day when you were worry-free. If that is hard to do, you are not alone in a fast-paced, demanding world. One to-do list follows another, and sometimes it is just hard to catch your breath, but when you do, everything may seem easier.
Harvard Health reminds us how our breath in belly-breathing can ease everyday stress and anxiety. If you have deep-seated ongoing issues, you may need to see your doctor and talk with a therapist, but if you just need to get a grip, those deep breaths can do a lot to turn that fight-or-flight response around.
What to Do First
If stress sits on your shoulder all too often, it may be time to find some good support. Chiropractic can help you lay the foundation for calmness, and a daily belly-breathing routine can take it from there.
See Your Chiropractor
Stop by The Joint Chiropractic clinic in your community to find out how much chiropractic can do to ease aches and pains and calm your life.
First your chiropractor will show you how spinal health translates into overall good health. The spine keeps us moving through our day, and the central nervous system housed inside supplies our brain-to-body communication. When the spine is healthy, everything else works better too.
A gentle targeted spinal adjustment may provide far-reaching pain relief and a pervasive sense of well-being. Everything may seem clearer. New energy may show up, along with a fresh sense of relaxation.
Weekly 15-minute spinal adjustments may keep all of the benefits coming. At the same time, it can serve as a platform for daily belly-breathing exercises.
How to Use Your Breath
Set the stage.
- Find a spot where you can sit or lie comfortably and quietly
- Practice once or twice a day at the same time to create a welcome habit
- Do 10- or 20-minute sessions
Take Step 1 and 2
Step 1 - Take a deep breath. Slowly breathe in through the nose, letting the chest and lower belly expand fully and rise up. Then slowly breathe out through your nose or mouth.
Step 2 - As the deep breathing becomes comfortable, focus on a favorite memory or familiar image in your garden or on the water, and repeat a comforting phrase. Let the session shape itself to become a reassuring ritual. You may also want to use your breathing routine in yoga, tai chi, qi gong or other mindfulness meditations or repetitive prayers. Whatever works for you.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Atlanta, Ga.