Breathe Deeply this Spring: Moondust Cosmetics® Simple Techniques to Revitalize
Spring’s arrival is the perfect time to pause, refresh, and embrace the rejuvenating power of breath. Today’s post is about breathing deeply to oxygenate your body and revitalize your spirits, boost energy, and enhance your overall well-being. Your every breath makes a difference in your next moment, especially for women who juggle many responsibilities. Make breathwork a part of your daily routine to enjoy vitality and resilience. Read on for Moondust Cosmetics® tips to help you come alive alongside nature in this Stress Awareness Month and Earth Day celebrations, with better breathing.
How Breath Affects Health
Did you notice that breathing is the only body function that is both an involuntary action that keeps us alive, and also one we can consciously control?
Deep, intentional breathing has been linked to numerous health benefits, including stress reduction, improved immune function, better digestion, and enhanced mental clarity. By oxygenating our cells more efficiently, deep breathing supports every system in our body, from our cardiovascular system to our nervous system.
And it has other effects…
Breathwork and the Brain
Breathing well has a profound impact on the brain. Deep breathing triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing the production of stress hormones like cortisol. This can lead to greater emotional stability, improved focus, and even better sleep quality. Studies have shown that regular breathwork can rewire the brain, enhancing our emotional regulation and resilience over time.
It’s as if every single breath is a meditation that is work keeping up…
How to Sustain Breathwork Practices
Incorporating breathing exercises into daily life doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple techniques like diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing, can be done anywhere, anytime. Simply open a window and inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your abdomen to expand fully, then exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling the tension release from your body.
Setting aside just a few minutes each day to practice deep breathing can yield profound results in both physical and mental well-being. Make sure you check the Air Quality Index (AQI) in your city or town before you open that window, though, to ensure that you are breathing in the best quality air of the day (below 50).
Are You a Nose or Mouth Breather?
While both nose and mouth breathing have their place, there are distinct advantages to our breathing through the nose. Nasal breathing filters and humidifies the air, reducing the risk of respiratory infections and ensuring optimal oxygen uptake. Additionally, breathing through the nose activates the diaphragm more fully, promoting deeper, more efficient breaths. However, in certain situations, such as intense physical exertion, mouth breathing may be necessary to meet increased oxygen demands.
Select a Breathing Practice that Suits You
Try one of these Moondust sample breathing techniques for you to try from various traditions:
- 4-7-8 Breathing Technique (Pranayama): This technique is derived from the ancient Indian practice of pranayama, which focuses on controlling the breath to influence the flow of life force energy. To practice 4-7-8 breathing, inhale deeply through your nose for a count of 4, hold your breath for a count of 7, and then exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of 8. Repeat this cycle several times, allowing your body and mind to relax deeply with each breath.
This is an excellent choice if you need help relaxing at night to slip into a deep sleep.
- Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana): Another pranayama technique, Nadi Shodhana, is believed to balance the subtle energy channels in the body, promoting physical and mental harmony. To practice, sit comfortably and use your right thumb to close your right nostril. Inhale deeply through your left nostril, then close it with your ring finger and exhale through your right nostril. Inhale through your right nostril, then close it and exhale through your left nostril. Continue this alternating pattern for several rounds, focusing on the smooth flow of breath.
- Box Breathing (Military Technique): This technique is widely used by military personnel and is also known as square breathing. It’s a simple yet effective way to calm the mind and increase focus. Start by inhaling deeply for a count of 4, hold your breath for a count of 4, exhale for a count of 4, and then hold your breath again for a count of 4. Repeat this cycle several times, visualizing the four sides of a square as you breathe.
- Buteyko Breathing Method (Russian Tradition): Developed by Russian doctor Konstantin Buteyko, this method focuses on reducing over-breathing (hyperventilation) by emphasizing nasal breathing and gentle breath control. Practitioners learn to breathe shallowly and lightly through the nose, gradually reducing the volume of air intake. The Buteyko method is believed to improve oxygenation, reduce stress, and alleviate respiratory conditions like asthma.
- Lion’s Breath (Yoga Tradition): In yoga, Lion’s Breath (Simhasana) is a powerful breath technique that releases tension and energizes the body. Start by sitting in a comfortable position, then inhale deeply through your nose. As you exhale forcefully through your mouth, open your mouth wide, stick out your tongue, and roar like a lion. This breath is often accompanied by a stretching movement, opening the chest and throat.
Why not practice these techniques in the month of Earth Day, in a green space? Indoors surrounded by your plants, your early spring garden or while forest bathing.
Double up on these benefits while you focus on breathing better!
- Improved Air Quality
- Reduced Air Pollution Exposure
- Increased Oxygen Intake
- Lower Stress Levels
- Enhanced Immune
- Enhanced Mood and Well-being
- Better Sleep Quality
These are just a few examples of the rich tapestry of breathing techniques and of the benefits if you pay attention to improving life with each breath.
Experiment with different techniques and remember to approach your practice with patience, curiosity, and an open heart.
One more sun care tip! If you choose to spend your time in outdoor green spaces, or blue spaces, such as oceans, lakes, rivers, and even urban water features like fountains and ponds, you will also benefit from exposure to sun. Apply Moondust’s Skin Protector Plus (SPP) and enjoy your time in nature this Earth Day and every day, secure in your environmentally friends, safe and toxin free skin care.
For more articles on topics of science, health, beauty and lifestyle in the context of our own and our planetary health visit moondustcosmetics.com
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