A healthy person takes slow, deliberate breaths. Sadly, research shows that most of us are shallow breathers. Rather than inhale at full capacity, we tense up and barely intake air.

Inadequate inhalation increases stress and is symptomatic of shock and depression.

Life is traumatic. Emotional distress and chronic pain weaken our core. We must learn to listen to our bodies and rhythmically pace our respiration, rather than panic and strain to gulp in air.

If we constantly perceive threats, we will live in a perpetual “fight or flight” mode.

Are you working too hard to breathe? Try this workout:

• Stand up: Get your blood flowing and heart pumping.
• Reach up: Lift your arms straight up to heaven.
• Call out: Raise up a deep sigh. He hears your cry.

Breathe deeply. Trust fully.

He’ll quiet your body and mind and fill you with His power and grace.

Breathing Exercise:

Read Psalm 55. Note every way God sustains those who are teetering on the edge of “fight or flight.” Read verse 22 in several different translations. Write out the words on a 3×5 card or post-it note. Slowly inhale this sweet promise of God’s protection until God’s peace oxygenates every cell in your body.

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I am sharing “Take Deep Breaths” and joining like-minded sisters at Faith-Filled and Moments of Hope.

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