How Breathwork Opens Up Your Airways - Air

yoga pose

Breathing exercises have been a staple in various healing practices for centuries, including those in the astrology community. But how exactly do these exercises work to heal the body? In this blog, we will explore the science behind the healing power of breathwork and the various benefits it can have on the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of our well-being.

First, let's delve into the science behind breathwork. When we breathe, our body takes in oxygen and expels carbon dioxide. Oxygen is essential for our cells to function properly, as it helps to produce energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Carbon dioxide is a waste product that is produced during this process, and it is expelled through our breath.

However, our breath can also have an impact on our nervous system and our emotional state. The way we breathe can either activate or calm the sympathetic (fight or flight) or parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous system. When we take shallow breaths or hold our breath, it activates the sympathetic nervous system, causing our heart rate to increase and our muscles to tense up. This can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress. On the other hand, when we take slow, deep breaths, it activates the parasympathetic nervous system, causing our heart rate to slow down and our muscles to relax. This can lead to feelings of calm and relaxation.

So, how does this relate to healing? When we take slow, deep breaths, it activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which can have numerous benefits on the body. For one, it can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can have a positive impact on our mental health. It can also help to lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. Additionally, deep breathing can improve digestion and boost the immune system.

But the benefits of breathwork don't stop there. It can also have a positive impact on our emotional well-being. When we take slow, deep breaths, it helps to bring us into the present moment and can help us to be more mindful. This can lead to an increased sense of self-awareness and can help us to better understand our emotions and reactions to situations.

In addition to the physical and emotional benefits, breathwork can also have a positive impact on our spiritual well-being. Many people in the astrology community use breathwork as a way to connect with their higher selves and to tap into their intuition. By focusing on the breath, we can quiet the noise of the mind and tune into our inner wisdom.

So, how can you incorporate breathwork into your healing practice? There are many different techniques you can try, but here are a few simple ones to get you started:

  1. The 4-7-8 breath: This technique involves inhaling for a count of four, holding the breath for a count of seven, and exhaling for a count of eight. This helps to slow down the breath and bring you into a state of relaxation.

  2. Alternate nostril breathing: This technique involves closing off one nostril and breathing in through the other. Then, you close off the other nostril and exhale through the first nostril. This helps to balance the breath and can be particularly helpful for relieving stress.

  3. Belly breathing: This technique involves focusing on the movement of your belly as you breathe. To do this, place one hand on your chest and one hand on your belly. As you inhale, allow your belly to expand, and as you exhale, allow your belly to contract. This helps to deepen the breath and can be particularly helpful for those who tend to take shallow breaths.

Breathwork can be a peaceful and healing process. Try some simple breathing exercises everyday, and you'll be on your way to a better, healthier body.