By Adrian Zupp
Breathing is key. You’ll hear this again and again from yoga teachers and other relaxation experts.
Why? Because when you focus on breathing calmly and evenly it replicates the way you breathe when you’re in a naturally relaxed state – such as just before or after sleep. When you begin breathing this way, your brain and body follow suit and wind down.
There are various relaxation-breathing techniques, all of which are quite simple and can be done virtually anywhere and at any time. And it’s been shown that the benefits can be both physical and mental. Just by taking yourself to a relaxed state once or twice a day, you can actually begin to feel less stressed, depressed, or anxious.
And technology is finding its way into the picture. For example, there’s the Breathe2Relax app for iPhone® and iPad®. Developed by the National Center for Telehealth & Technology (T2), this free, interactive app walks users through a customized session of deep breathing. You can set the length of the inhales and exhales, the background music and relaxing screen image, while a soothing voice guides you through the session. Go to the iTunes App Store® to download the Breathe2Relax app to your portable device
If you or someone you know is struggling, you can take a free, anonymous online screening for depression, alcohol, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), or posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Adrian Zupp is the marketing and communications writer at Screening for Mental Health.
Breathing is an essential part of relaxation. Yoga enthusiasts who I have researched are very good at explaining the importance of calm breathing. This App is genius! I am getting it. Thanks for the share Adrian!
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