Are You Settling for Low Vitality? A Simple Free Energizer

English: show the shallow breathing. Dansk: viser vejrtrækning i brystet. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It seems we all are looking for more energy these days trying to keep up with the pace of life, as well as to even have energy to do the things we enjoy that actually build energy.

There is one simple, but often over looked technique that can give us a good foundation. Breathing! We have to do it so why not make sure it works for us instead of against us?

Proper breathing–or lack of–affects our energy, feelings, thoughts, perceptions and physical experience. Improper breathing patterns contribute to and intensify stress, anxiety, panic, depression, muscle tension, headache and fatigue. Making proper breathing a habit helps to prevent the negative effects of stress, and to improve physical and psychological well being.
Most of us have drifted into shallow thoracic breath patterns. Being mindful about our breath and choosing to consciously guide it into a healthy flow is a simple way to begin to take charge of our energy, health and well being. The lists below show the contrast between healthy and unhealthy breath patterns.

Thoracic breathing
Most common breathing pattern
Shallow, rapid, irregular
Upper chest expansion
Shoulders rise

Result:
Blood not oxygenated properly
Increased heart rate
Increased muscle tension
Fight-Flight response triggered

Leads to:
Breath holding
Hyperventilation
Faintness
Low vitality/energy

Diaphragmatic Breathing
Deep
Regular
Slow
Entire chest expands

Result:
Proper oxygenation of blood
Regular heartbeat
Decreased muscle tension
Relaxation Response triggered

Leads to:
Experience of ease, calm
Inner Peace
Sense of centeredness, ability to focus and concentrate
Increased energy