It’s something we do every day, all day. Breathe. We are not always aware of it, but our bodies do it for us so we don’t keel over. Breath truly keeps us sane and alive.
Making a conscious effort to be more aware of every inhale and exhale can bring about great reward. Any time that you have a bout of stress coming on just take a big breath and count to yourself saying 1…2…3. As you exhale (in yoga we like to think we are exhaling out all the bullshit) count to yourself 3…2…1. Repeat. And Repeat. And Repeat. You can also do guided meditations to help you start incorporating more calm in your life. I personally use the app Calm. Here is an article by Mind Body Green that lists 5 great meditation apps.
Bringing this conscious awareness to your breath allows your parasympathetic nervous system to kick in. The parasympathetics control your rest, relax, and digestive response. When the parasympathetic system is dominant, your breathing slows, your heart rate drops, your blood pressure lowers as the blood vessels relax, and your body is put into a state of calm and healing.
You can also use the breath to allow you to appreciate an amazing moment even more like yoga on the beach in Costa Rica 😉 Allow your breath to enhance any moment you wish to enjoy deeper or allow you to help push away any moments you wish to go away. You have the control over how you feel. Isn’t that great? Make an effort throughout your week to notice your breath and have the most relaxing vacation yet! Give yourself the choice to feel happy, energized and free of stress. I promise you deserve it.
Keeping Fitness Fun!! xoxo
Christine
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