5 Reasons To Relax: Inhale Exhale Repeat

Sometimes life gets busy. When life gets busy we often overlook a basic essential: breathing. We go on autopilot and our breath becomes shallow. It’s better to have focused breathing: Inhale. Exhale. Repeat. Relax.

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Have you ever listened to the rhythm of the ocean? Intentionally listened? When we listen to the swoosh and sway of the ocean waves it relaxes us. Our own breath can have the same effect, relieving stress.

First, we need to remove all the clutter, both physical and emotional. Let go of the excess. Once we’ve created a clean space, we are ready to focus on breathing. Choose a quiet and comfortable space. Inhale. Exhale. Repeat. Relax.

Take long breaths through your nose. Release your breath through your mouth. As you continue to focus on your breath you will become more calm. Breathe deeply and consistently. Focused breathing has many health benefits.

Inhale, Exhale, Relax, Repeat

  1. Reduces stress: Focused breathing calms us. We often go through our day on autopilot. We forget to breathe deeply. Our mental and physical health suffers. It’s easy to forget to breathe. Make a point to consciously feel your breath each day. You will be much more relaxed. Inhale. Exhale. Repeat. Relax.
  2. Increases energy: Deep breathing allows more oxygen to enter our lungs and bloodstream. Oxygen creates energy. Body and mind will be reenergized after a short session of focused breathing. Try it. Inhale. Exhale. Repeat. Relax.
  3. Aids digestion: If you suffer from indigestion, breathing is one of the simplest cures. Deep breathing after meals will help you digest your food. Your stomach will thank you. Inhale. Exhale. Repeat. Relax.
  4. Creates happiness: When we are calm we are at peace. When we are at peace our happiness level increases. When we are happy we are more calm. Do you see a pattern here? Focused breathing creates happiness. Be happy. Inhale. Exhale. Repeat. Relax.
  5. Stimulates creativity: I’m a writer. I feel that I’m much more productive when both my space and head are clear. Deep breathing helps clear the mind. Oxygen stimulates brain cells and fosters creativity. Inhale. Exhale. Repeat. Relax.

In the midst of all the rush, remember to stop and breathe.

Inhale, Exhale, Relax, Repeat

I know it’s a challenge to focus on breathing. I’m a single dad to a nine-year-old girl. Annie is a good kid, but she can be demanding. She can also overreact and get emotional. That creates stress and chaos. I have to remember to take a few deep breaths.

Being a single parent is filled with busyness. Just today:

  • Get up
  • Do dishes
  • Do laundry
  • Annie up
  • Breakfast
  • Annie to school
  • To work
  • Teach classes
  • Email
  • Grading
  • Annie from school
  • Play with dog
  • Annie’s homework
  • Annie’s piano practice
  • Karate
  • Dinner
  • Halloween Dance
  • Annie to bed
  • Breathe

Can you relate? Some days are even busier. That’s why it’s imperative that we stop. Take time to breathe. We need to stay focused. We need to keep calm. We need to breathe.

Remember to start with a quiet, clean space. Imagine your breath like the waves of the ocean. 

Take the 10 Step Challenge with me. Live simple. Find peace. 

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