Deep deliberate breathing will provide our body with vigor and vitality. We ignore the power and energy that breathing can generate. Oxygen is essential for every cell and organ in our body. Our respiratory system distributes this vital energy and eliminates toxins from our body.

We breathe 24 hours a day, 7 days a week during our entire lives. We can last many days without food, a shorter period of time without water but without breathing for only a few minutes, we begin to turn blue!

Dr. Marcos Levy explains that as we breathe deeply, our diaphragm contracts. This contraction creates suction within the largest vein in our bodies, called the vena cava, which carries blood from our lower extremities to the heart. This improves blood circulation and increases energy levels.

One of the best ways to assure proper breathing is through vigorous exercise. As our heart rate increases and we begin to breathe deeply we automatically utilize our diaphragm. I know what you are thinking:

“I don’t have time for exercise!”

While exercise is ideal for deep breathing, there are other ways to breathe properly. The first step is to inhale slowly and deeply through the nose. The air should fill first the lower, middle and then upper lungs. Exhale through the mouth while fully relaxing rib cage and stomach. This can be accomplished during the following activities: