Why is it important to breathe?

Breathing is an involuntary reaction of the body. It's happening constantly in every moment of everyday. It is tremendously important to learn how to breath in a way that allows the body to function the way it should. Stopping to take a moment, acknowledge that we are alive is a good starting point. From there we realize the way we breath can have profound benefits.

Breathing is the tool that connect us with ourselves, the action that let energy flow and activates the parasympathetic system, the one that is connected to the resting part of the brain and activates the moment of relaxation.

There are many different breathing techniques that could always help us, specially in those moments of stress, but one that I really like is called "Box Breathing"

Box breathing is a simple technique that can restore our body and bring us back to our center. It work specially well in moments of anxiousness or stress. It goes like this:

* Inhale as you slowly count to 5.

* Hold your breath for a count of 5.

* Exhale as you slowly count to 5.

* Hold your breath for a count of 5.

Repeat as many times as you want.

You can practice Box Breathing for only one minute and have an immediate response. A calmer mind and more relaxed body.

Or you can practice it longer and generate longer term benefits.

It all depends on you and what you want. You know your body better than anyone, so you just have to learn how to listen to it and practice what works best for you.

Take this day to start your week with a more conscious and aware mind.