Ctrl+Alt+Del Breathing

We live in a society filled with instant gratification. With just one click, we can fulfill our needs or wants and have them conveniently delivered to our doorstep. Like our smartphones and computers, we expect our bodies to jumpstart at the blink of an eye. But just like hard drives and processors crash, if we neglect our body of necessary supplies, our health will diminish.

The human body has many automated functions- breathing being one of them. Breathing is so natural and obvious that often we take it for granted. We forget how much effect our breathing patterns have on our body, mind and spirit. Each inhale brings in oxygen that transforms nutrients in our bodies to fuel for organs which is vital for survival. With each exhale, toxins and waste products are purged out from within the body. Our breath patterns affect our state of mind- we can become excited, calm, tense or relaxed. Our thinking patterns can become confused or clear. Conscious breathing can be energizing and calming and even benefit stress-related health issues including digestive disorders and anxiety.

Throughout the day, how many times have you focused on the process of breathing? No matter what your goal may be in life, whether long or short term, in order to fulfill them, be reminded that the most important thing you need is breathing.

Ctrl+Alt+Del your breathing. Try this exercise: Sit comfortably with your spine straight, shoulders relaxed, head slightly inclined forward, and neck in a neutral position. Close your eyes and take quiet, slow and deep breaths. Try not to force your breaths. Breathe in through the nose and out through the nose or mouth. After each complete breath, count from 1… 2… and onto 10. If time allows, from 10, count backwards, 9… to 1. Repeat as necessary.