In a shitty mood? Try breathing.

We all know that breathing is essential for life. But did you know that proper breathing can also improve your mood and reduce stress? In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of breathing and how to do it. I will also share a few breathing exercises that can help improve your mood.

The Benefits of Breathing.

When you breathe deeply, it sends a signal to your brain to relax. The brain then releases chemicals that make you feel happier and more relaxed. Deep breathing also lowers your heart rate and blood pressure, which further reduces stress and anxiety

Reduces stress.

Deep breathing is one of the quickest and most effective ways to reduce stress. When you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious, taking a few deep breaths can help you calm down and regain focus.

Increases energy levels.

Deep breathing oxygenates your blood, which gives your cells and organs the energy they need to function properly. This can help improve your overall energy levels, as well as your mental clarity and concentration.

How to Breathe.

Inhale through the nose.

Breathing in through the nose allows for a more controlled intake of air, and also filters and humidifies the air before it reaches the lungs. This is especially beneficial if you live in an area with poor air quality.

Exhale through the mouth.

Exhaling through the mouth helps to release tension in the body and clear the mind. It also helps to get rid of any unwanted toxins or chemicals that may have been breathed in.

Repeat as necessary.

Depending on your mood and how much stress you’re feeling, you may need to repeat the breathing exercises a few times before you start to feel any relief. However, even just a few rounds of deep breathing can help to improve your mood and reduce stress levels.

Breathing Exercises for Mood Improvement.

1. The 4-7-8 breathing exercise:

This breathing exercise is designed to help you relax and reduce stress. It is based on the principle of yogic breathing, which is said to help balance the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.

1. Exhale completely through your mouth.

2. Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose to a count of 4.

3. Hold your breath for a count of 7. (Avoid holding your breath if you have high blood pressure)

4. Exhale slowly and completely through your mouth, making a whoosh sound to a count of 8.

5. This completes one breath cycle. Repeat the cycle 3 more times for a total of 4 cycles.

2. The box breathing exercise:

The box breathing exercise is another way to help you relax and reduce stress levels. It is also said to improve focus and concentration, as well as boost energy levels and stamina.

1. Sit or lie down in a comfortable position with your eyes closed.

2. Place one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest, so you can feel your breath as you inhale and exhale deeply and slowly through your nose.

3. Breathe in for a count of 5, then hold your breath for a count of 5.

4. Breathe out for a count of 5, then hold your breath for a count of 5.

5. Repeat this cycle until you feel calm and relaxed.

3. The alternate nostril breathing exercise:

The alternate nostril breathing exercise is said to be helpful in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. It is also said to improve sleep quality and help with respiratory problems such as asthma.

1. Sit or lie down in a comfortable position with your eyes closed.

2. Place your right hand in front of your face. Fold in your pointer and middle fingers, leaving your thumb, ring and pinky fingers extended.

3. Use your thumb to block your right nostril, then inhale deeply through your left nostril to the count of 4.

4. Now use your ring and pinky fingers to block your left nostril, then exhale through your right nostril to the count of 8 (breathe out slowly and steadily).

5. Inhale through the right nostril to the count of 4, then block it with your thumb and exhale through the left nostril to the count of 8 (breathe out slowly and steadily).

The benefits of breathing are well-documented and can have a profound impact on our mood, stress levels, and energy levels.

When we breathe properly, we oxygenate our blood and brain, which helps to improve our overall sense of wellbeing.

There are a number of different breathing exercises that can be used to improve mood, and the 4-7-8 breathing exercise is one of the most effective. This exercise is simple to do and only takes a few minutes, but it can have a profound impact on your mood and stress levels.

If you’re looking for a way to improve your mood and reduce stress, give these breathing exercise a try.