Stress is an unfortunate companion of modern life. Whether it's due to work demands, family worries or social pressures, stress can quickly become overwhelming. Fortunately, there is a powerful weapon at our disposal to deal with stress: breathing. In this article, we'll explore how breathing can be helpful in combating stress and introduce you to three simple and effective breathing exercises to help you regain your calm.

How breathing can help combat stress:

Reduction of anxiety

When we are stressed, our breathing tends to become shallow and rapid. This sends signals to the brain to keep the body alert. By practicing deep, mindful breathing techniques, you can reverse this process. Slow, deep breathing sends relaxation signals to the brain, reducing anxiety.

Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system

The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for relaxation and recovery. By practicing controlled breathing exercises, you stimulate this system, which helps you reduce stress and restore balance to your body.

Improved concentration

Mindful breathing helps focus your attention on the present moment, distracting you from stressful thoughts and improving mental clarity. This allows you to better handle stressful situations.

Now that we understand how breathing can be helpful in combating stress, here are three breathing exercises you can incorporate into your daily routine:

1. Deep abdominal breathing

• Sit comfortably with your back straight.
• Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen.
• Inhale slowly through your nose, making sure the hand on your abdomen rises as you inhale.
• Exhale slowly through your mouth, releasing all the air from your lungs.
• Repeat this deep breathing for 5 to 10 minutes to feel more calm and centered.

2. Cardiac coherence

• Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
• Inhale slowly for 5 seconds.
• Exhale slowly for 5 seconds.
• Repeat this cycle of inhaling and exhaling for 5 to 10 minutes.
• Cardiac coherence helps regulate the heart rate and calm the nervous system.

3. Alternate breathing (Nadi Shodhana)

• Sit comfortably with your back straight.
• Place the index and middle fingers of your right hand between your eyebrows.
• Alternate closing each nostril with the thumb and ring finger of your right hand.
• Start by blocking your right nostril and inhaling slowly through your left nostril.
• Next, plug the left nostril and exhale through the right nostril.
• Repeat this cycle for 5 to 10 minutes to balance your energy and reduce stress.

By integrating these breathing exercises into your daily life, you will be better equipped to deal with stress and find a state of calm and serenity. Breathing is a powerful resource, available to everyone, to improve your mental and physical well-being. Try these exercises and make them a routine to maximize their benefits with our Icepiration bath.