Affinity Health, a leading provider of affordable health coverage for all South Africans, counts down 10 amazing health benefits of breathing exercises.

What Are the Benefits of Deep Breathing?

Deep breathing is one of the easiest ways to relax or relieve stress. Breathing is a necessary element of life since every cell in the human body requires oxygen to survive. However, the power of your lungs working together with your diaphragm to bring air into and out of your body can also dramatically improve your overall happiness and wellbeing.

Research shows that practicing deep breathing techniques for a few minutes each day might help you reduce stress, relax your mind and body, and sleep better. Affinity Health has compiled a list of top reasons to take a breather.

1.

Deep Breathing Acts as a Natural Painkiller

When you take a deep breath, your body produces endorphins, which are feel-good hormones as well as a natural pain reliever.

2.

Deep Breathing Improves Blood Flow

The upward and downward movement of the diaphragm during deep breathing aids in the removal of toxins from the body and promotes healthier blood flow.

3.

Deep Breathing Improves Immunity

Deep breathing allows you to inhale fresh oxygen while exhaling pollutants and carbon dioxide. When your blood is oxygenated, your organs, including your immune system, run more smoothly. A cleaner, toxin-free, and healthier blood supply improves your immunity and helps ward off infection-causing germs from the start. Deep breathing is a natural toxin reducer as well. It also aids the body’s absorption of vitamins and nutrients, allowing you to recuperate more quickly.

4.

Deep Breathing Calms Down Anxiety

Deep breathing is a quick fix that many experts and psychologists recommend alleviating anxious thoughts and uneasiness. Deep breathing causes your heart rate to calm down, allowing your body to take in more oxygen and, as a result, signalling your brain to relax. It also helps to balance your hormones by lowering cortisol levels and enhancing endorphin release.

5.

Deep Breathing Helps Improve Sleep

A simple deep breathing routine can help you sleep better. Taking slow, deep, lengthy breaths can help you sleep better by signalling your body to cleanse and return to a state of peace. To get a decent night’s sleep, people with insomnia are often advised to do breathing exercises and meditate before bedtime.

6.

Deep Breathing Increases Energy Level

We obtain more oxygen into our blood because of increased blood flow. Increased oxygen levels lead to an increase in energy.

7.

Deep Breathing Improves Posture

Bad posture is linked to poor breathing. Try to take a few deep breaths and note how your body begins to straighten up as a result. Filling your lungs with air causes your spine to straighten spontaneously.

8.

Deep Breathing Reduces Inflammation

Research suggests that diseases like cancer tend to grow in bodies that are naturally acidic. Deep breathing can help make your body more alkaline by reducing acidity. Stress also raises the body’s acidity level. Breathing helps to alleviate tension and, as a result, acidity.

9.

Deep Breathing Detoxifies the Body

Carbon dioxide is a natural harmful waste that can only be expelled through breathing. When our lungs are compromised by shallow breathing, our other detoxification systems work overtime to eliminate the waste. This can weaken our bodies and cause sickness.

10.

Deep Breathing Stimulates Lymphatic System

Because the lymphatic system is moved by our breathing, shallow breathing might result in a sluggish lymphatic system that does not cleanse adequately. Deep breathing will aid in appropriate lymph flow, allowing your body to function more efficiently.

11.

Deep Breathing Improves Digestion

Deep breathing provides more oxygen to all our body parts, including our digestive system, allowing it to function more effectively. Deep breathing increases blood flow, which promotes intestinal activity and hence improves your overall digestion. Deep breathing also helps to soothe the nervous system, which improves digestion.

There are several self-regulate apps available online. Visit the Apple and Google Play stores to download these apps if you are interested in trying breathing techniques. Alternatively, find a healthcare provider closest to you here.

About Affinity Health

Affinity Health is South Africa’s leading provider of health insurance, offering you a range of options at affordable rates including access to the widest national provider network. We understand the importance of having medical insurance that meets your needs, your budget, and your lifestyle. Our range of healthcare products are designed to protect you and your family when it matters the most. We strive to give our clients peace of mind and the highest standard of service at all times. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.