(NaturalHealth365) Breathing is something that many of us take for granted. However, it’s likely that you’re not breathing deeply enough to reduce stress in your life and achieve optimal health. (keep reading for some surprising health news)

Why is deep breathing so important?  It is estimated that the body rids itself of up to 70 percent of toxins through breathing. When the breath is too shallow, the lymphatic system can’t properly do its job.

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 has no such pump. Breathing and the movement of the body are required for it to work effectively.

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

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 has the effect of massaging the internal organs as well as the lymphatic system.

Cellular detoxification and oxygenation: During deep breathing, the body is naturally stimulated to rid itself of toxins, and more nourishing oxygen can reach the cells.

Relaxation: Deep breathing exercises also trigger the parasympathetic nervous system, also 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. Deep breathing also encourages increased fat burning due to its ability to reduce stress 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 during the day – not just during your fitness routine or yoga practice (although it’s extremely beneficial during this time as well.)

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

References:

https://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/13-health-benefits-of-deep-breathing