There's nothing wonky about breathing exercises. They are a vital part of many successful people's routines and coping mechanisms.
Take a deep breath in, and slowly let it out. As one of the most innate, natural bodily functions, we rarely stop to notice our breathing. However, as oxygen is essential to almost every chemical reaction in our bodies, the way we breathe is inextricably linked with our health and our minds.
Have you ever been told to “just breathe” or “take a deep breath”? Breathing is a central component of the nervous system and a vital source of the body’s response to stress. We experience it every day. When we are caught in a stressful situation, our breathing becomes quicker and our heart rate increases. However, when we are aware of how these stressors affect our bodies, we can intentionally slow our breath and cultivate a sense of calmness.