We are living a wonderful life on the planet earth for the simple reason that we all are breathing the air filled with oxygen and other gases, in and out of our body every minute, isn’t it so?

Let’s understand the basics of breathing …...

Breathing is a very important process to support our existence which involves the intake of oxygen and expelling of carbon-di-oxide from the lungs. The exchanges of gases namely oxygen and carbon-di-oxide takes place in our lungs between the alveoli (cells of the lungs) and the blood.

Oxygen is an important gas which is essential for all the metabolic activity and sustenance of every function in all kinds of cells in our body. The by-product of the metabolism carbon-di-oxide needs to be expelled out. A perfect balance of these gases in our blood are of prime importance to maintain a state of homeostasis.

An important statistic to understand is, an average human being has a breathing rate of 14 – 18 per minute to sustain life….

Since time immemorial, several specialized breathing techniques called as pranayamas has been practiced regulating the breath and thereby increase the longevity of life and quality of life.

Based on several research studies, it has been understood that slow breathing/regulated breathing techniques knows as pranayamas in yogic science has significant effect on improving the quality & longevity of human life.

Now let’s understand the important effects of right breathing techniques/pranayamas on the different organs and systems of our body –

• On Respiratory system – Improves the lung capacity (tidal volume) and alveolar ventilation.
• On Cardiovascular system – Improves the HRV (Heart rate variability) leading to improved better functioning of the heart.
• It also slows down the heart rate, facilitating better functioning of the heart.
• Improves the hemodynamics by reducing the resistance in the blood vessels facilitating better blood flow, reducing the blood pressure, and improving the circulation to the tissues and cells of our body for better functioning.
• On Nervous system - Brings about a balance in our autonomic nervous system and improves the action of parasympathetic thereby promoting a state of calmness.
• On Mind - A regular practice of Pranayama/Deep breathing techniques shall also help us to conquer anxiety, insomnia, sleeplessness by calming our mind, reducing over-thinking and worries.  
• On Metabolism – Improves every function of the cell for optimal energies physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Now, that we have understood the importance of right breathing techniques; it is imperative to all of us to take a step towards optimal health by practicing basic breathing exercises and pranayamas by a trained instructor to improve the longevity and quality of our lives and lead a peaceful life, isn’t it so?.

Dr. Gurudatta H K, BNYS, FCRSW - Founder, Anandamaya Wellness Center