Breathe deeply

In Eastern philosophy we learn that the mind and body are intertwined, interconnected forces that shape our well-being. It might sound far-fetched, but when the mind and body are in sync we can feel a profound sense of positivity, calm, and improved health. Being present in the moment can feel like a challenge with interruptions from phones, family, and general daily life. The good news is you don’t have to be an expert in meditation techniques to take some simple steps to improve your mental health.

Embrace relaxation and mindful breathing

Begin by finding a comfortable position – whether standing, sitting, or lying down – and loosen any restrictive clothing that might hinder your breathing. Take a moment to relax, allowing yourself to let go of the tension in your body; relax the shoulders, and unclench that jaw! Focus on your breath, becoming aware of the sensations around you. 

Try this: as you breathe in, raise your shoulders towards your ears, hold for a few moments, then exhale and allow your shoulders to relax back down. Repeat three times and feel the tension leave your body.

Deep breaths for enhanced vitality

Breathe in, and breathe out, expanding and opening the chest and ribcage. Feel yourself begin to relax as you take these intentional, deep breaths. Deep breaths allow more oxygen to enter the lungs and be transported throughout the body. This increased oxygen supports your body’s functions, from cell regeneration to energy production! This can be done whilst sitting or standing, whichever you feel more comfortable with.

Discover the beauty of restful moments

When we experience anxiety or nerves about something we may hold our breath, instead of using it to release stress. Your normal breathing (the kind you don’t think about) is shallow, but with deep breaths you can activate abdominal breathing, which can regulate your heart rate and blood pressure. These deep breaths enhance activation of your diaphragm (the big muscle below your lungs) which in turn can help your venous system and lymphatic flow, giving your fluid balance an extra help and aiding the immune system. Simple things like going for a walk or listening to nature while you breathe deeply can be really joyful.

Living with reduced mobility or a chronic ulcer is draining, and each day you need to push to live the best life you can. By embracing the connection between your mind and body you can begin to feel more positive and take your mental wellbeing into your own hands.