Before you read this close your eyes and take 5 deep breaths, focusing on slow long inhales, and even longer exhales. Okay, thanks for doing that. Read on!
A little “stress” can be good for your system. It helps us learn how to fight and repair and awaken. Using your breath in different ways can be that good type of stress. Breathwork techniques can have a profound impact on your energy levels. By consciously altering your breathing patterns, you can influence your physiological and psychological states, which in turn can affect your energy levels. Here are my thoughts on how breathwork is a positive stressor in our bodies:
Oxygenation: Deep, conscious breathing increases the amount of oxygen you take in, which enhances the oxygen supply to your body and brain. Oxygen is essential for cellular energy production, so by improving oxygenation, breathwork can boost your overall energy levels.
Relaxation and stress reduction: Certain breathwork techniques, such as 3 part breathing, activate the parasympathetic nervous system, triggering a relaxation response. This helps reduce stress, anxiety, and tension, which can drain your energy. By inducing a state of relaxation, breathwork can help restore and conserve energy.
Enhanced mental clarity: Breathwork practices often involve focused attention on the breath, which can help calm the mind, increase mindfulness, and improve mental clarity. When your mind is clear and focused, you can direct your energy more effectively, avoiding distractions and promoting sustained energy levels throughout the day. I love Breath of Fire to put a good stress on my body and help my mental clarity.
Improved circulation: Deep breathing exercises can stimulate blood circulation by activating the diaphragm and massaging the internal organs. Improved circulation means that oxygen and nutrients are delivered more efficiently to your tissues, while waste products are removed more effectively. This can support overall vitality and energy levels.
Energy balancing: Specific breathwork techniques, such as Alternate Nostril Breathing, aim to balance the flow of vital energy or life force within the body. This practice works on the subtle energy channels (nadis) and energy centers (chakras), aiming to remove energy blockages and promote a harmonious flow of energy. When the energy flows freely, it can contribute to increased vitality and balanced energy levels.
I find it relevant to note that individual experiences may vary, and the effects of breathwork on energy levels can differ depending on the technique, duration, and regularity of practice. The more consistent you are the more you will benefit. If you're interested in exploring breathwork, I would love to help guide you, reach out! Keep your eye on my YouTube for instructions to different techniques of breathing.
Anne