By Amy Christ, LISW-CP
Deep Breathing—Dumb or Actually Helpful? 🤔💨
Can you think of a time when you didn’t make good choices because your emotions were high? Have you ever tried to recall a memory from a moment of extreme stress, only to find it difficult? Or maybe you’ve heard someone say, “Take a deep breath,” and thought, “How is that supposed to help?” Well, here’s your answer🙌
Why Oxygen Matters 🫁
From an early age, we learn that food, water, and oxygen are essential for survival. But oxygen isn’t just about staying alive—it plays a huge role in how well our body and brain function. When we experience stress, our body reacts in ways we don’t always notice:
✅ Increased heart rate ❤️
✅ Muscle tension 💪
✅ Sweating 😰
✅ Stomach discomfort 🤢
What do these all have in common? They all require oxygen! And when stress kicks in, oxygen gets redirected to our muscles, heart, and extremities—taking away from our brain’s ability to think clearly.
The Science Behind It 🧠
Imagine you’re stuck in traffic, running late for an important meeting. You grip the steering wheel tightly, feel your body temperature rising, and clench your jaw so hard your teeth hurt. What’s happening?
🚨 Your body is in fight-or-flight mode! 🚨
Your muscles are tense, blood vessels are expanding, and your body is demanding more oxygen to stay on high alert. But here’s the problem: that oxygen is coming from your brain. So, while you need to think logically about your next move, your brain isn’t getting the oxygen it needs to function at full capacity.
How Deep Breathing Helps 🌬️
The simple act of deep breathing sends oxygen back to the brain, helping it regulate emotions, make better decisions, and restore balance. Here’s how you can make sure you’re breathing deeply:
🫀 Try This: Place a hand on your stomach. When you inhale, your stomach should expand, pushing your hand outward. As you exhale, your hand should return to its starting position. This ensures your lungs are fully expanding, giving your body the oxygen boost it needs!
Think of It Like Charging Your Phone 📱
When your phone’s battery is low, it doesn’t work as quickly or efficiently, right? Well, your brain functions the same way when it’s low on oxygen. Deep breathing acts as a quick charge, restoring your ability to think clearly, make better decisions, and calm your nervous system.
Final Takeaway 🧘♀️
Next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t underestimate the power of deep breathing. Taking a few intentional breaths isn’t just a cliché—it’s a proven way to reset your brain, reduce stress, and regain control. So go ahead, give it a try. Your brain (and body) will thank you! 💙
💙 Looking for more ways to manage stress and improve emotional well-being? Our therapists are here to help! Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you.
Gentle Reminder: As licensed therapists, we love sharing insights on mental health and personal growth. While this blog provides valuable information, it is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care. Everyone’s journey is unique, and if you need support, we encourage you to reach out to a licensed mental health professional or local resources. You deserve care that’s tailored to you! ❤️
