To Your Health
July, 2010 (Vol. 04, Issue 07)
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Take a Deep Breath

By Editorial Staff

Adults take anywhere from 17,000 to 30,000 breaths a day, on average, most of the time without even realizing they're doing it. Breathing is so natural that we usually take it for granted; that is, until something happens that threatens our ability to breathe.


Many people actually don't breathe correctly, at least not on a consistent basis. "Correctly" means breathing that maximizes oxygen exchange in the lower lobes of the lungs. More oxygen equals more nourishment for cells.


In more simple terms, ideal breathing is known as "abdominal" or "belly" breathing; it should engage the belly button, rather than the upper chest. Visually, if you're breathing properly, your lower belly will rise more than your chest.

There are many reasons why healthy people don't breathe correctly; everything from stress to fear to holding in your stomach to make it look tighter. Doing any of these things consistently will lead to shallow breathing, which will impair oxygen exchange.


Take a Deep Breath - Copyright – Stock Photo / Register Mark