Strengthening our lungs and practicing conscious breathing (one of the most potent, accessible wellness tools) is more critical now.
Controlled or mindful breathing can reduce chronic pain; lessen symptoms associated with anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, mass disasters and depression; and positively affect your immune system. Mindful breathing is also linked to increases in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and a better cortisol awaking response (CAR)—each a physiological key for meeting challenges with greater resilience.
We usually breathe on autopilot, but The Wellness Moonshot Calendar for April helps you explore different conscious breathing practices, including calming “4 x 8 breath,” “breath of alignment,” and “heart-centered breath.” Or try Shaolin Qi Gong breath exercises designed to keep your lungs strong.
