Benefits...
By learning to ‘consciously’ oxygenate your body you can expect to experience the following emotional, mental, physical benefits...
Emotional
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Using our body to regulate our emotions and bring levels of stress down is an incredibly empowering tool to have. It is hard to control the mind, with the mind. Just by telling yourself to calm down never really works. I used to find that it just added to the stress and frustration of the situation.
By consciously oxygenating our bodies with an understanding of the effects of engaging with our parasympathetic nervous system we can promote the relaxation response we want, and control our stress response resulting in decreased heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormone levels.
Creates Inner Calmness
By using slow, deep, and rhythmic breathing patterns and focusing our attention on the breath we can help the mind in becoming more present and centred, reducing our 'mental chatter' and increasing a sense of calm and emotional balance.
Developing self regulation skills allows people to respond to stressful situations in a calmer, more collective and efficient manner by regulating emotions and finding a greater sense of calm, even in challenging situations.
Mental
Influences Positive Mood
Breathwork practices can stimulate the release of endorphins which are neurotransmitters in the brain, that act as natural mood enhancers and pain relievers. The release of endorphins such as dopamine and serotonin contribute to feelings of positivity, well-being, and even euphoria.
Focusing on the breath also promotes present-moment awareness and by focusing on the sensations associated with breathwork we can cultivate mindfulness. This essentially means the art of applying non-judgmental awareness to the present moment. This practice therefore helps shift our attention away from negative or persistent thinking, resulting in a more positive mood and greater appreciation of the present moment.
Physical
Lowers Blood Pressure
By engaging with the parasympathetic nervous system and activating the relaxation response we are decreasing our heart rate, therefore lowering our blood pressure.
Reduces Inflammation & Increases Immune System
With the regulation of the autonomic nervous system (promoting relaxation and stress reduction) we can achieve a positive influence on inflammation as chronic stress is linked to increased inflammation. Additionally consciously oxygenating your body, making it a more alkaline environment gives it less chance to promote disease, as disease thrives in acidic environments.
Increases Energy and Stamina
Oxygen is essential for energy production in the body, as it is used in the process of cellular respiration. By increasing oxygen levels in the body we can increase energy.
An increased oxygen intake supports aerobic energy production which enhances stamina during physical activities. Also by regulating the autonomic nervous system and assisting the body into a state of relaxation we promote more effective energy usage resulting in increased levels of endurance.
Aids Digestion
When the sympathetic nervous system is activated under stress, blood is pumped to areas that are important for an immediate physical response such as the muscles, heart, brain and lungs. By returning the body to a state of 'rest' through the parasympathetic nervous system, blood is allowed to flow and engage with the enteric system (the digestive system) shifting the body into the best state for digestion.
Improves Circulation
By enhancing our oxygen intake we are facilitating the better movement of blood throughout the body.
Supports Correct Posture
All breathwork practices should be done whist maintaining a straight spine. This is to allow for the diaphragm to work to it’s best potential.
Strengthens the Lungs
The diaphragm is a muscle and like any muscle when intentionally controlled it can be strengthened. When trained the lungs can acquire more O2, therefore improving their function and supporting their health.