WELLNESS AT WORK & RESILIENCE: BREATHING PART ONE

Breathing is not just a basic human function, it also has the power to support our sleep and mental wellbeing. The simple act of breathing can have a profound impact on our physical, emotional, and mental health, especially when it comes to sleep and relaxation. In this article, we’ll also explore how breathing can help you sleep better, to further support your mental wellbeing.

First and foremost, breathing can help to calm the mind and reduce stress and anxiety. The simple act of taking slow, deep breaths can trigger the relaxation response, slowing down the heart rate and lowering blood pressure. This helps to calm the mind and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Breathing also helps to improve sleep quality. Deep breathing exercises before bed can help to clear the mind.

Aside from helping you sleep better, breathing can also have a positive impact on your mental wellbeing. The simple act of breathing can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, improve focus and concentration, and boost overall mental clarity. Regular breathing exercises can also help to increase mindfulness and reduce negative thoughts, promoting a more positive and balanced outlook.

Did you know that there is evidence to suggest that the way in which we breathe also impacts the physical structure of our mouth. Breathing through our noses promotes the natural order of how we as humans are designed to breathe and can help with a whole number of physical conditions!

Since breathing alone is such a powerful tool for wellbeing, having a conscious focus on our breathing is something we can all incorporate into our daily lives. Helping to calm the mind, reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and promote mental clarity and positivity. So, next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling to get a good night’s sleep, try taking some deep breaths and feel the benefits for yourself.

If you are interested in understanding more about the science behind breathing and to learn specific techniques, we recommend reading “Breathe” by James Nestor.