Take some time to breathe and rest this weekend gang

I truly believe when we are anxious or have niggling thoughts it impacts how we ingest and hold our breath - and it makes such a difference to breathe consciously

Shallow, upper chest breathing is part of the typical stress response

The stress response can be reduced by consciously breathing using the diaphragm

Abdominal breathing helps to control the nervous system and encourages the body to relax, bringing about a range of health benefits

Breathing is an automatic function of the body that is controlled by the respiratory centre of the brain. When we feel stressed, our breathing rate and pattern changes as part of the ‘fight-or-flight response'

Fortunately, we also have the power to deliberately change our own breathing

There are different breathing techniques to bring about relaxation. In essence, the general aim is to shift from upper chest breathing to abdominal breathing. You will need a quiet, relaxed environment where you won’t be disturbed for 10 to 20 minutes

Sit comfortably and raise your ribcage to expand your chest. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen. Take notice of how your upper chest and abdomen are moving while you breathe. Concentrate on your breath and try to gently breathe in and out through the nose. Your upper chest and stomach should be still, allowing the diaphragm to work more efficiently with your abdomen rather than your chest

With each breath, allow any tension in your body to slip away. Once you are breathing slowly and with your abdomen, sit quietly and enjoy the sensation of physical relaxation

Try and use this wrekrnd to relax and ensure you're doing positive things for you

I love to take time to do some mindful breathing by the sea 🌊

We can all refocus our heads in this mad TV game again next week ❤️