In a recent National Public Radio (NPR) interview, Esther Sternberg, M.D., described the way deep breathing relieves stress. Dr. Sternberg compared the body's stress response to a car going 190 kilometres per hour. This powerful reaction releases specific chemicals and hormones in your brain. And that actually helps you protect yourself when you sense danger.

But when those chemicals and hormones remain at high levels, they can impair your immune system. Dr. Sternberg: "When you are stressed, you have your foot on the gas, pedal to the floor. When you take slow, deep breaths that is what is engaging the brake." Deep abdominal breathing alleviates stress by stimulating the vagus nerve – the main nerve of the relaxation response. An important chemical compound called acetylcholine is activated when the vagus is stimulated. The vagus uses this neurotransmitter to relax your body and reduce inflammation.

Recent research has shown that the vagus nerve also stimulates stem cells to repair brain tissue damaged by inflammation.

Types of Breathing

People who are anxious tend to breathe in their upper lungs (upper chest) with shallow, rapid breaths, instead of breathing into their lower lungs (lower chest). This is one contribution to hyperventilation: shallow, upper lung breathing.  Most of us are not conscious of our breathing.  I presume that most of you would be aware if you are exercising being chased or suddenly having a heart attack or sorts.  Till then we are mostly on automation.

There are basically three types of breathing: 

1. Abdominal breathing or natural breathing 
2. Deep Diaphragmatic Breathing – Slow breaths through 
3. Holding breaths and counting 30 to 90 seconds

A SIMPLE PRACTICE

Here's a simple, beneficial practice you can try. Over the next few days or weeks, see if you can observe and sense you’re breathing several times a day in the middle of your activities. Notice whether or not you are breathing through your mouth. Also notice how often you hold your breath. For some of you, mouth breathing or breath holding may be a frequent activity. For others, it may occur mainly in physically, emotionally, or mentally stressful situations. When you notice yourself breathing through your mouth or holding your breath, remind yourself to breathe through your nose and to stop holding your breath.

There are many different types of breathing exercises.

A dog's normal resting breathing rate is between 15 and 30 breaths per minute. However, it's important to understand that dogs breathe faster and more deeply for various reasons, such as exertion, heat, excitement, and even to cool down. If you notice a persistent or unusual change in your dog's breathing pattern, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian. (Google)