The Power Of Breath

It seems I've been breathing incorrectly for almost 49 years.

Always time to check in with your breathing

How could something so vital to staying alive, be so complicated to perfect?

After a week of waking up with palpitations, I spoke to a dear friend of mine who happens to be a GP. Basically, she told me I needed to check in with my breathing ASAP. Jo is not only a GP, she runs her own successful online business and coaches health practitioners on how to set up their own consultancy, so she knows her stuff! As I was marching through the fields with the ridgebacks, she offered me some very good advice to help me regulate my breathing.

After a little research, downloading a podcast hosted by Mel Robbins she recommended I listen to - what I discovered about proper breathing techniques, blew my mind!

Breathing is a fundamental aspect of our existence, something we do automatic without a second thought.

So, you’d like to think we’d all have this breathing malarky all sorted.

But some of us didn’t get the breathing memo! It seems, I’ve been breathing, but not breathing properly. No wonder I’ve been in a bit of a tis lately.

Basically, I’ve been taking my breathing for granted. Unaware that the way I’ve been breathing lately has significantly been impacting my physical and mental wellbeing. With the ever growing list of things to complete each day, it’s no surprise that I’m not taking my breathing seriously.

I might have to send myself the memo: “Take a moment to pause for thought, journal and remember to breath correctly Tanya!”

This week, I’m going to enjoy rediscovering ‘the art of proper breathing’. Who’s going to join me?!

After listening to Mel Robbins interview with guest Patrick McKeown - a world leading breath work expert, what I learnt, was nothing short of transformative.

We all know that breathing is essential for survival, but the nuances of how we breathe can make a world of difference in our overall health.

One of the key takeaways from the podcast, was the importance of breathing through the nose. Nasal breathing can enhance oxygen uptake, reduce the risk of respiratory issues, and even aid a good night’s sleep. So simple when you know how.

Do you breath through your nose?

And, as we are on the topic of breathing well, how often do you take the time to concentrate on your breathing?

I’m really intrigued to know how your breath.

I’ve always struggled to take really deep breathes, now I know why.

It’s very much a ‘work in progress’. Listening to my friend’s advice and the recommended podcast, has been a wake call for me. I’ve realised that once I learn how to harness my breathing well, it will improve my sleep and allow me to wake up in a more calm state of mind.

NOTE TO SELF: Next time I catch myself taking short shallow breathes, remember the incredible potential of proper breathing. Take a deep breath in through my nose, and as I exhale, release the stress and chaos of the day.

I’m off to breathe in some calm and clarity for the day ahead.

Until the next time

Take care & stay safe xxx

Mel Robbins Podcast:

For some reason I couldn’t add the podcast link, so this is the title of the interview if you’d like to have a listen - Five Ways To Improve Your Breathing For Better Health