Breath Well, Live Well: Enhancing Your Breathing Efficiency

Published Apr 12, 2023 3 min read

Breathing is one of the most fundamental and critical human needs.

Proper breathing not only ensures the supply of oxygen to our body but also helps to release toxins and carbon dioxide from our body. Unfortunately, due to various reasons, many of us have compromised breathing patterns. In this blog, we will discuss the top ten best tips for ways to satisfy the basic human need for air - for optimal breathing.

6/6 breathing 

Slowing the breathing down is a technique that involves inhaling slowly for about six seconds, no holding and then exhaling slowly for six seconds. This technique alone enhances well--being in just about every way it might be measured.

Practice Diaphragmatic Breathing

Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing, involves inhaling through the nose and expanding the belly, rather than the chest. This technique helps to increase the efficiency of breathing by using the diaphragm, a large muscle located in the abdomen, to draw air into the lungs. Diaphragmatic breathing can be particularly useful for people with respiratory conditions such as asthma. Combine it with 6/6 breathing and you are getting close to an optimal breath.

Avoid Shallow Breathing

Shallow breathing involves taking short, quick breaths that only fill the chest, rather than the entire lungs. Often people get into a habit of breathing this way, especially if they are anxious, or overwhelmed. This type of breathing can lead to reduced oxygen levels in the body and can cause fatigue and other health problems. To avoid shallow breathing, focus on taking slow, deep breaths that fill the lungs completely.

Maintain Good Posture

Good posture is essential for optimal breathing. When we slouch or hunch over, it compresses the lungs and restricts the amount of air that can be taken in. To maintain good posture, sit up straight with your shoulders back and your chest open. This will allow you to take deep breaths and improve the efficiency of your breathing.

Engage in Regular Exercise

Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining optimal breathing. Exercise helps to strengthen the muscles used in breathing and also increases lung capacity. Cardiovascular exercise, such as running or swimming, is particularly beneficial for improving lung function. 

Reduce Exposure to Environmental Toxins

Exposure to environmental toxins, such as pollution and cigarette smoke, can damage the lungs and lead to respiratory problems. To reduce exposure to environmental toxins, avoid smoking and secondhand smoke, limit exposure to pollution, and use a mask when necessary.

Practice Breathing Exercises

Breathing exercises, such as the 6/6 method, help to retrain the body to breathe more efficiently. It requires practice and consistency to get the big benefits.The method  involves breathing slowly and shallowly through the nose, rather than the mouth, and gradually increasing the amount of time spent doing so. 

Practice Meditation

Meditation is a powerful tool for improving breathing. Meditation helps to calm the mind and reduce stress, which can lead to improved breathing patterns. During meditation, focus on taking slow, deep breaths and letting go of any tension or stress in the body.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential for optimal breathing. When we are dehydrated, the mucus in our airways can thicken, making it more difficult to breathe. To stay hydrated, drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption.

Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is crucial for optimal breathing. During sleep, the body repairs and rejuvenates itself, including the respiratory system. To ensure that you are getting enough sleep, aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night and establish a regular sleep routine.

Hypnotherapy can help you adopt new lifestyle habits. For a no obligation chat about this go here.

In conclusion, breathing is a fundamental human need that is essential for optimal health and wellbeing. By incorporating these top ten tips into your daily routine, you can improve the efficiency of your breathing and enjoy the many benefits of proper oxygenation, including increased energy, reduced stress, and improved overall health. Start by incorporating one or two tips into your routine and gradually build up to incorporating all ten. With consistent effort, you can improve your breathing patterns and enjoy a healthier, more fulfilling life. Remember, optimal breathing is within your reach, so take the first step today and start breathing easier!


 To learn more about the 16 Basic Human Needs click here
 To learn more about the basic human need for giving and receiving attention click here
 Take the "What's my happiness blindspot?" assessment, and get a free personalised report about your basic human needs.

“Anthony Jacquin BLOG”

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