The Mindful Minute - Deep Breathing for a Calm State of Mind

The benefits of slow and deep breathing abound.  When we draw the attention to the breath, we encourage a calm state by activating the parasympathetic nervous system - the part of the nervous system responsible for the rest and digest state.  If however, we breathe quickly, the opposing sympathetic nervous system takes over, encouraging a fight or flight response. A calm resting state leads to clear and informed thinking, better focus, and more time to respond to life rather than constantly react without control.Choose to lie down comfortably or sit in mountain pose. Notice the rise and fall of your abdomen to your chest as you inhale and exhale respectfully, breathing through your nose. After a few breaths, begin a comfortable count, equal on the inhale and exhale. Slowly lengthen the count, inhaling to your highest number and exhaling to that same number. Notice your physical, mental, and energetic sensations without judgment.