Most people think they breathe properly, because breathing is a natural, automatic activity, which we do all our lives without putting too much thought in it. In fact, people care more about the way they look, rather than breathe. But oxygen is what keeps us alive, and most of us only inhale and exhale short breaths, mainly in the chest.
The key to proper breathing is to include the diaphragm, which pushes the lungs, helping them to fully expand. The lungs can inhale about 6 liters of air per 1 minute, but if you don’t use their full capacity, you don’t use them as nearly as needed.
Following these 3 simple steps will help you learn how to breathe deeply:
Step 1: Lie on the floor on your back. Put one hand on your navel, the other on your chest.
Step 2: Slowly inhale air until your lungs are filled. Count 5 seconds, 1 … 2 … 3 … 4 … 5. Your stomach should heave while you are doing this, and your chest should expand on both sides.
Step 3: When you feel that your lungs are filled, exhale slowly, counting to 7. When your stomach lowers down and regains its original position, you’ll know that your lungs are fully emptied.
Repeat this procedure twice daily. 10 deep breaths in the morning and 10 at night will improve your lung and blood vessel function, fill your body with oxygen, cleanse the toxins from your body and reduce stress.
