The Power of Breath By Poonam Kher

A human being takes on average 15-17 breaths a minute, and up to 20-25 breaths if stressed or extremely anxious. As the general pace of life increases, breathing patterns are getting faster and increasingly shallow, resulting in lower levels of purification of the body through our respiration. It’s no wonder then that a tortoise that takes 3-5 breaths a minute lives, up to 200 years! By reducing the pace of breathing the human being can live a longer and healthier life.

 

The power of the breath can be unleashed through the practice of Pranayama (breathing exercises) that teach us to control the movement of air through the human system. Through these daily exercises, the capacity of oxygen taken into the lungs is increased and begins to purify the air that remains in the lungs due to shallow breathing. This trapped air does not become part of your natural respiration and can give rise to diseases in the body.

 

Pranayama helps to flush out toxins from the system and rejuvenate the mind and body with fresh supplies of oxygen. This deep detoxification process is very powerful and can be beneficial in many ways:

 

•   Increased oxygenation of blood and increased blood circulation

•   Strengthens lungs and exercises internal organs

•   Is Anabolic (energy generating) in nature

•   Smooths working of endocrine glands which makes it possible to eliminate serious health problems

•   Reduces hypertension

•   Reduces cholesterol

•   Improves immunity

•   Toxins are eradicated from the body

•   Reduces stress levels (reduces cortisol the stress hormone) and stabilises the mind

•   Relieves anxiety and depression

•   Improves concentration and brain function

 

Pranayama has been medically proven to be very effective in completely healing long standing health issues such as diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, heart disease, migraines, obesity, respiratory problems, as well as many stress related diseases such as depression, anxiety, lack of concentration and insomnia. Whilst allopathic medicines have been known to help control these conditions, Pranayama treats the root of the problem.

 

Pranayama teaches slower, deeper and more rhythmic breathing which can be practised daily in your own home.

 

The results? Better health and wellbeing, a positive state of mind, longevity and a better balance of energy in your body. All you have to do is breathe!

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Content provided by Body in Balance