Although you may not realize it, the breath is your best healing tool. No, seriously.

It is the signal to your brain that indicates whether or not you are in physical danger and triggers the fight or flight survival mechanism. Now, that’s a good thing – unless, you are reacting to everyday events as though they are a threat. Meaning, you are constantly worried, rushed, anxious and generally breathing in a shallow fast manner. Sound familiar??

This elevates your stress hormones and throws everything out of whack. Especially if you never actually start running from the percieved predator, you just go on to the next stressful thing, staying in that fight or flight mode. This is a recipe for burn-out, weight gain, disease, mental health issues, you name it.

But the good news is that you can do something about it – BREATHE! A long, slow, deep breath sends signals to your brain that everything is ok; you’re not about to be eaten by a predator, so all your bodily functions (like digestion) can continue as normal. No fight or flight…

We breathe all day long, but most of us are unaware of it. To keep us out of panic mode, we need to breathe. Consciously, steadily, consistently. And the cool thing is that breathing is FREE and you never leave it at home. So really you have no excuse to climb down off the edge and live your day on a gentler, calmer level.

Here are 3 breathing exercises to include in your daily routines. One for general relaxation, one for settling down at night and one for energizing and clearing. No wierdo stuff required…

The 4-4-4 Breath

This breath will relax and calm you down. It will help you when you feel overwhelmed with emotions and and anxiety. Very simple and easy to do – great for beginners and kids.

The 4-7-8 Breath

Calms the nervous system, initiates deep relaxation. Clears the mind and helps you fall asleep quickly. Helps to balance hormones and stress response.

Breath of Fire

Energizes and stimulates the body and mind and boosts the immune system. Releases toxins and deposits from the lungs, mucous linings, blood vessels, and other cells. Increases physical endurance and strengthens the 3rd Chakra. Rreduces addictive impulses for drugs, smoking, and bad foods. Increases oxygen delivery to the brain, facilitating a focused, intelligent, and neutral state of mind.

It seems so simple, but it really is our connection to health, as we can only live without oxygen for a minute or two. Make these exercises part of your daily routines and see how you can manage your energy and emotions in just a couple of minutes!