The heart and brain are closely connected and have a significant impact on our emotional state. Coherent breathing is an effective way to stabilize the heart rhythm and improve brain function, ultimately helping you feel more balanced and calm.
Coherent breathing involves slow, deep, diaphragmatic breaths that activate the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for relaxation and returning the body to a restful state. When you breathe in this manner, you encourage a state of balance between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) branches of the autonomic nervous system.
By inhaling and exhaling at a rate of six breath cycles per minute (five seconds for each inhale and exhale), we create an optimal balance between these two systems, leading to enhanced mental clarity, reduced stress levels, and a more stable emotional state.
Regular practice of coherent breathing can provide long-term benefits such as improved emotional resilience, better focus and concentration, and a stronger immune system.