(NaturalHealth365)  Breathing is something many of us take for granted.  However, most people tend to breathe in a shallow way, contributing to stress and limiting oxygen intake.  On the other hand, deep breathing activates the body’s relaxation response, supports circulation, and promotes overall well-being.

Why is deep breathing so important?  Proper breathing helps oxygenate the body and supports the movement of the lymphatic system, which plays a key role in immune function.  While the body primarily eliminates toxins through the liver, kidneys, and digestive system, deep breathing can aid in overall detoxification by improving oxygen exchange and circulation.

Reduce stress by activating your body’s detoxification system

The lymphatic system neutralizes and transports toxins from the cells and dumps them into the circulatory system.  The toxins are then cycled through the liver and kidneys and eventually excreted.

However, while the circulatory system is pumped by the heart, the lymph system does not have such a pump.  Breathing and body movement are required for it to work effectively.

Without sufficient bodily activity and deep breathing, effective detoxification isn’t possible.  The lymphatic system becomes sluggish, resulting in fatigue, inflammation, weight gain, and high blood pressure.  Fortunately, deep breathing exercises are one simple exercise that can make all the difference to the health of the lymphatic system.

Best deep breathing exercises to promote detoxification

Eastern cultures and yogic traditions have long been aware of how important deep, mindful breathing is to health and well-being.  The breath is central to practices like yoga and tai chi.  Deep breathing brings a wealth of benefits to health and well-being.  Here are some of the top reasons to remember to breathe deeply:

Stimulates organs and lymph flow: The expanding and contracting effect of the diaphragm during deep breathing massages the internal organs and the lymphatic system.

Cellular detoxification and oxygenation: Deep breathing naturally stimulates the body to rid itself of toxins, allowing more nourishing oxygen to reach the cells.

Relaxation: Deep breathing exercises also trigger the parasympathetic nervous system, called the “relaxation response.”  This promotes a calm sense of well-being.  Breathing is a natural way to reduce stress and its effects on the body and mind.

Fitness and weight loss: Breathing is essential to cardiovascular capacity and maximizing the effects of each workout.  By reducing stress, deep breathing also encourages increased fat burning, so the body doesn’t burn glycogen instead of fat.

Deep breathing exercises can be performed anywhere, anytime.  Strive to cultivate the habit of breathing deeply as much as possible throughout the day, not just during your fitness routine or yoga practice (although it’s extremely beneficial during these times as well).

For optimal benefits during deep breathing exercises, exaggerate your breath, lungs’ expansion, and diaphragm movement.  Expand your belly and abdominal muscles during each inhale, and empty your lungs completely when you exhale.  Even just a few minutes a day of this type of breathing can work wonders for the body, mind, and spirit.

Sources for this article include:

NIH.gov