When you're exercising, it's crucial that you engage in proper breathing techniques. It goes beyond keeping you alive. In fact, learning how to breathe reduces stress while also increasing your energy levels. {relatedarticles}Breathing exercises get the oxygen and blood flowing. In doing so, your blood pressure goes down, the metabolism is stimulated, digestion is assisted and the tension surrounding the organs is released. Of course, deep breathing also helps clear the mind and breathing exercises have long been touted as a great tool for relaxation. During exercise, it's important to practice proper breathing. It can help prevent dizziness, improve athletic performance and increase the amount of calories burned. The rule of thumb is to exhale when your muscles contract and inhale when you return to starting position. There are many different breathing techniques depending on what your goal is.
If you're trying to relax, here is one option. Sit up straight and exhale. Inhale while also relaxing the stomach muscles. Feel as if your abdomen is filling with air. After filling the stomach with air, keep inhaling, filing up the middle of your chest. {relatedarticles}Your chest and rib cage should expand. Hold the breath for a moment and then start to exhale slowly. As you release, relax your chest and rib cage. Pull your belly in and force out the remaining breath. Close your eyes and concentrate on your breathing. Relax the muscles in your face. Practice for 5 minutes. Try and incorporate this routine into your life to help reduce your stress.