The Stress Release of the Breath

We do it every minute of every day, and most of us take it for granted—breathing is so automatic that we might just not pay close enough attention to it. From my personal experience with people who have Parkinson's, they tend to be shallow breathers. We all can tend to unintentionally hold our breath in times of stress or awe and not even realize that we are doing it.

Mindful breathing helps with dyskinesias

I have noticed that at times of dyskinesia, I tend to breathe shallowly and reduce my lung capacity, unknowingly. Once realizing that my breath is shallow, and I can focus on my breath, the awareness of the body and mind connection gets re-punted. I think of it as a computer getting a reboot. Being mindful and focused on your breath can be extremely calming, centering, and relaxing.

Mindful breathing helps with a panic attack

About ten years ago, I had what I thought might have been a heart attack, but discovered that it was a panic attack. Trying to qualm the panic attack, even with the numerous tools that I have available to me was a tremendous challenge. My first and most pressing challenge was to calm my breathing and reduce my rapidly beating heart. As difficult as it was, I noticed that when I was able to concentrate on my deeper breathing and less focused on outside distractions, my quick beating heart slowed back to a normal rhythm.

Mindful breathing helps with stress

The breath can seem to be subtle but have a huge distinction. Our breathing can be a good indicator of the stress on our body and the efficiency of our respiratory system. Allergies, colds, and irritants can interfere with the fluidity of the breath. Be sure to pay close attention to the rhythm and the pattern of your breath. Try to keep your inhalation and exhalation of equal lengths. Notice the muscles that you are using and the amount of effort that your body requires to oxygenate your lungs.

How to breath mindfully

A good but simple and calming meditation is one that quiets the mind and stays focused on the breath.

• Choose a quiet spot.
• Close your eyes or focus on a point in the room.
• Take some deep breaths and try to clear your mind of all thoughts.

Clearing the mind and focusing on the breath takes practice and effort. It is well worth your time! Meditation and breathing go hand in hand.