Deep breathing can relax the brain and body from "summary" of The Brain's Way of Healing by Norman Doidge
Inhale slowly and deeply, hold your breath for a moment, and then exhale slowly. Deep breathing can relax the brain and body. When you do this, you are not just breathing in oxygen; you are also activating the vagus nerve, a key component of the parasympathetic nervous system. This nerve acts like a brake on the sympathetic nervous system, which controls the body's fight-or-flight response. By stimulating the vagus nerve through deep breathing, you are essentially telling your body that it is safe to relax. The vagus nerve is like a two-way communication system between the brain and the body. When it is activated, it sends signals to the brain that everything is okay, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. This, in turn, can have a calming effect on the entire nervous system. Deep breathing can also increase the production of calming neurotransmitters like GABA and serotonin, further promoting relaxation and a sense of well-being. In addition to its effects on the nervous system, deep breathing can also help improve blood flow throughout the body. When you take slow, deep breaths, you engage the diaphragm and other muscles involved in respiration, which can help improve circulation. This increase in blood flow can have a variety of benefits, including reducing muscle tension, improving digestion, and enhancing overall physical health.- Promoting a greater sense of calm and well-being. By incorporating deep breathing into your daily routine, you can help train your brain to respond more effectively to stress and anxiety. Over time, this can lead to a more balanced nervous system and improved overall health. So, take a moment to breathe deeply, and let your brain and body relax.
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