When we slow our breathing during times of stress and anxiety the nervous system has an opportunity to reset. Our autonomic nervous system enables our bodies to respond to our needs and use our energy efficiently. Two parts of this system are the parasympathetic nervous system and the sympathetic nervous system. Basically, think of the parasympathetic as being active with our need to “rest and digest” and the sympathetic nervous system taking over in times of “fight or flight” which is especially associated with anxiety.
By slowing the breathe during anxiety, the body has a chance to switch over to the parasympathetic nervous system and calm down.
Breath as Prayer: Calm Your Anxiety, Focus Your Mind, and Renew Your Soul by Jennifer Tucker is a great resource for including the truth and power of scripture with breathing when experiencing times of stress and anxiety, especially when there is too much to do and too little time. The author goes into further detail about the science behind breathing to calm down. As Tucker writes in her beautifully written book, “But your strength doesn’t come from how you’re feeling but rather from Who you’re trusting.”
Practice mindful breathing techniques while listening to the following peace-filled music. Then, create your own peaceful playlist and make a peaceful routine a part of everyday.
Breath in 1-2-3-4, breathe out 1-2-3-4…
This Irish hymn sung by Nathan Pacheco is as peaceful visually as it is to listen to. Pacheco’s interpretation was inspired by Andrea Bocelli and Pavoratti.
