Breathing Tricks
Oxygen circulates in your blood throughout your body, assisting in the clearing and ridding of potential infections and bacteria. Incorporating breathing tricks and techniques into your daily life and exercise routine can help clear and refresh your mind, while also improving your overall lung function and helping to protect your body's health.
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Proper Breathing
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Breathing properly is essential for healthy lung function and for obtaining all of the benefits oxygen offers for the body. Breathing through your nose rather than your mouth allows the miniature hairs and mucous membranes within your nose to block toxins, dust and other bacteria from entering your body. If your abdomen is not rising when you are breathing, you are breathing shallowly. When breathing, inhale so your abdomen and chest move together to allow your lower lungs to function fully.
Stimulating Breath Technique
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Using only your nose, inhale and exhale rapidly, keeping your mouth closed. In about one second, breathe in and out three times equally to complete one rep of this breathing exercise. This breathing trick allows your diaphragm to quickly move and become active. Do not do this exercise for more than 15 seconds on your first try. Increase the duration by five seconds each time you complete the exercise until you reach a full minute.
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Breath Counting
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Sit comfortably with your back straight and your head facing slightly forward. Close your eyes and begin to take a few deep breaths to calm your mind and body before beginning the exercise. Once you feel relaxed enough, begin to count your breaths, one to five as you exhale. As you exhale, think of "one," "two" and so on until you reach "five". Do not count when you are inhaling, only exhaling. If you reach the count of five on your exhale and you still have breath left, start counting over again. This will allow further control of your breathing and discipline with your body. Do this for 10 minutes as a form of a breathing exercise and meditation.
Relaxing Sigh
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Yawning and sighing are both signs that you are not getting the proper amount of oxygen to your lungs. When you sigh, you are releasing a bit of tension, which also relaxes your body. Incorporating a relaxing sigh trick will help you relax whenever you feel the need. You can practice a relaxing sigh sitting or standing, depending on your preference. Sigh intentionally, letting out any energy, sounds and air you release from your lungs. Breathe in deeply and repeat sighing eight to 12 times to feel more relaxed and relieved from stress while also giving your lungs more oxygen.
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References
Resources
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