Take A Deep Breath

Harness the power of your breathing to boost your wellbeing.

Reduce blood pressure

Breathing through your left nostril may help lower heart rate and blood pressure, according to an Indian study. ‘Place your right index and middle finger in the space between your eyebrows, then close off your right nostril with your right thumb,’ says yoga teacher Naomi Costantino. Aim for six minutes of long, slow breathing.

Ease pain

When we’re in discomfort, our breathing often increases or we hold our breath, says osteopath Nick Potter (back science. co.uk), who specializes in pain management. ‘Slowing down your breathing helps dull your body’s stress response, which in turn can reduce your perception of pain. Concentrate on breathing deeply and slowly, using your diaphragm, for 10 to 20 breaths.’

Stop headaches

Most of us breathe too shallowly, which can reduce the oxygen supply to the brain’s blood vessels, causing headaches. ‘Ribcage breathing encourages blood oxygenation,’ says Pilates expert Susie Mermaid (mermaidwellbeing.com). ‘Sit and place your hands on your ribcage. Breathe in, focusing on the back and sides of your ribs expanding – imagine filling a balloon with air on the inhale, then let it gently deflate on the exhale.’

Boost concentration