My cousin taught me how to breathe properly when she came to visit several months ago. This technique is so simple. Try it and see how it helps you de-stress and re-energize.

To breathe properly, you want to breathe deeply and completely. Your abdomen should protrude when you inhale. When you exhale, your abdomen should flatten. When you breathe in, breathe until your lungs are full, and when you exhale, it should be until all the air is expelled.

This is just the opposite of how many of us breathe. We usually suck in our stomachs when we inhale. But watch a baby or a child. You will notice that they naturally breathe correctly!

So how does proper and deep breathing help you to de-stress? Through proper breathing, you oxygenate your body and help it to detoxify better. It also boosts the immune system. When you don't breathe properly, the converse happens and the lack of oxygen also clouds your head. No wonder we feel spaced-out and foggy when we are under stress! 

Go find a place to lie down. It's nicer if the room is darkened. Tell your kiddos to let mama be alone for a little while (train them to allow you to get away for a while when you have to!).

Lie down on somewhere comfortable. Close your eyes. Now Take a deep breath using the proper technique described above. Then exhale. As you inhale with your nose, count four. Then hold for four counts. As you exhale through your mouth, count six. Then hold for four counts. Breathe in and out correctly at least 10 times. If you can have soothing music (my favorite is Pachelbel's Canon in D), go ahead.

That's it!

When you rise from your bed or sofa, you will feel calmer as more oxygen circulates throughout your body.

Then fall on your knees and pray, pray, pray. Ask the Lord to grant you strength, and return to what you need to do.

I've found that these days, I can use this technique when I'm by the sink, when I'm driving or when I'm at the computer. I consciously breathe deeply before I go to bed and when I rise. It really does help relax me when I need to calm down, and energies me when I need to focus.

2006 Copyright Miiko Gibson