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Breathing is an automatic response. But unlike other systems in the body, the cardiovascular system, for example, we do have some conscious control over how we breathe.

If you’re anything like me, you know how easy it is to get caught up in the busyness of everyday life. Pets have to be taken care of, bills must be paid, and work has to get done somehow. Stopping to ‘breathe’ in between the chaos just doesn’t seem important.

But it is. It is so important!

Deep breathing techniques have been used for thousands of years to clear the mind and get humans in touch with a deeper level of themselves.

Even if you’re not into the spiritual side of breathing, there is hard scientific evidence to indicate breathing deeply can lower our blood pressure and invoke the relaxation response.

Want to enjoy the benefits of these breathing techniques? Then pick one or two of the following breathing exercises and start doing them daily!

Powerful Breathing Techniques to Detox Your Mind & Body

Technique #1. Mindful Breathing

Commonly used during meditation, mindful breathing simply requires you to become aware of your breath. You don’t have to try to change your breath. Just sit quietly and focus your attention primarily on it. In most cases, your body will begin to slow down your breathing as you do this.

Benefits:

A powerful way to destress your mind and body. After practicing mindful breathing, you should feel more relaxed and aware.

Technique #2. Ujjayi Breathing

Ujjayi breath, or ‘victorious breath’, is an ancient yogic form of breathing that can completely detox your body and mind. It is also known as ocean breath thanks to the sound you make while practicing this breathing technique.

To do it, start by sealing your lips and breathe in and out through your nose. Next, take an inhalation that is slightly deeper than normal and exhale as slowly as possible through your nose while constricting the muscles in the back of your throat.

You know you’re doing it write when you sound like Darth Vader or waves crashing on a beach.

Benefits:

  • Increases oxygen in the body
  • Aids in regulating blood pressure
  • Reduces tension
  • Detoxes your mind and body by centering your focus

Technique #3. Pranayama Breathing Technique

Widely used in Yoga practices, pranayama breathing is a great way to recalibrate your mind and body. It is very easy to do. Simply close your mouth and inhale and exhale through your nose. It promotes deeper breathing and can help clean the blood and clear your respiratory system. This allows good oxygen to travel to the heart and brain.

Benefits:

  • Reduces stress and anxiety
  • Promotes a mindful state
  • Cleanses the heart and brain systems

Technique #4. The 4-7-8 Breathing Technique

If you’re looking for a way to calm and relax your mind and body, this is the perfect breathing technique.

To do it, sit with your back straight up and down.

Move the very tip of your tongue to behind your upper front teeth.

Completely exhale through your mouth while your tongue is behind your teeth.

Count to four and close your mouth while inhaling ever so softly.

 Once you’ve done this, hold your breath while you count to seven.

After you’ve held your breath, exhale through your mouth to the count of eight.

Repeat three more times for the full effect.

Benefits:

  • Regulates stress levels
  • Increases oxygen levels in the brain and heart
  • Invokes the relaxation response

Let me know which of these breathing techniques you tried and which one of them worked best for you! In the meantime, explore some of my other posts:

How to Cleanse Your Lungs

How to Fully Relax