Did you know deep breathing exercises are helpful to raise oxygen levels in the body, and lower carbon dioxide levels both of which are necessary for a healthy immune system? Oxygen is often over-looked when we talk about human nutrition, but it is our most essential nutrient! We can live for weeks without food, and for days without water, but only minutes without oxygen! It’s important that we exercise our diaphragm, to maximize our intake of oxygen, and to maximize the removal of carbon dioxide from our body which is a waste gas.
Other benefits of deep breathing include strengthening and cleansing the respiratory system, improving diaphragm and abdominal strength to support the lungs and the heart in a healthy position, and also relaxing the nervous system. Of course, try to do deep breathing exercises in a high oxygen environment away from pollution. As with any exercise, listen to your body and stay in your comfort zone.