Breathing and anxiety relief

Breathing is a natural act for every human and animal. What most of you do not know is that your breath is directly related to your state of mind. If you are stressed your breathing is erratic, hastened and irregular. When you are at peace your breath is naturally longer and calmer. What this means is that the regulation of breath is an effective means of controlling your mind from the grip of anxiety, nervous tension, stress and it also helps a great deal in alleviating mental disorders.

One great exercise is called "Nadi Shodhana" or alternate nostril breathing. It is an advanced form of pranayama or breath control but is very easy to master. You breathe in through your left nostril by blocking the right nostril with your thumb. You then block the left nostril with your middle and ring finger and breathe out through the right. You repeat the process from the right nostril where you breathe in by blocking the left and breathe out through the left by blocking the right. This will balance the left and right hemispheres of your brain and clear the channels where "prana" or life energy flows in your body. Recommended duration is 15 minutes at a time, 2 times a day. Once you get used to the flow you can really go deep within yourself and achieve a great sense of calm and peace. Disorders of the brain are caused by neuro transmitters and chemicals which are malfunctioning. This pranayama will balance the irregular functions of the chemicals of the brain. It is also reputed to cure brain tumors. Alzheimer's, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disorders and a host of other medical conditions.

Walking helps reduce Anxiety

Walking is an excellent and refreshing act of exercise for the mind and body. A brisk 30 minute walk is imperative to improving the functioning of the physiology of the human mind. Tests have been conducted at various medical institutions propounding the fact that walking and moderate to a high level of cardiovascular activity can even 'change the neuro-chemistry' of the brain. When blood flow is increased by constant exercise, it results in oxygen being transported to the cells in the brain. Serotonin, which is a key neuro-transmitter responsible for mental disorders and conditions like OCD, depression, bipolar disorder and a host of other neurological anomalies is also normalised with daily walking for upto a period of 30 minutes. The best time to walk is early in the morning, it is soothing to the psyche and the availability of cleaner air makes it more refreshing and detoxifying for the lungs. Those of you who can do 'vigorous' walking will benefit and experience quicker results according to research. Another way to improve oxygenation of blood is to take deep breaths while walking. This proves really beneficial for brain function and release from negative emotions. It will take anywhere from a month to three months to notice a definite change in your neurological conditions of anxiety, depression and other disorders. Get your shoes, wake up early and walk your self to a healthy mind!