Did you know every time you breath in every cell in your body inhales oxygen and exhales carbon dioxide? This is known as respiration. Breathing is important because our cells constantly need a new supply of oxygen so they can produce energy. Without this vital oxygen, cellular function is impaired, and damage or cell death is possible.

What does deep breathing mean to you? Often, when we are angry, sad, or confronted with pain, it is our nature to hold our breath. Studies show that breathing through our pain is what will help us the most. Have you ever tried a challenging exercise and noticed you held your breath the entire time making you more tense? Once you realized you weren't breathing properly you tried it again, improved your breath and noticed a big difference when you focused on inhaling and exhaling. When we breathe deeply, we oxygenate the blood, which causes our brain to release endorphins. It is these endorphins that help reduce stress in the body and decrease levels of pain. By doing breath exercises you can reduce anxiety, decrease stress levels, improve sleep, and lower blood pressure. Take a few minutes today and focus on deep breathing.

-Shayma S. Sulaiman