Health

The Easiest Cure Ever for PMS, Stress, Insomnia and More (P.S. It's FREE)

Smart breathing techniques that can change your life

by Erica Smith | COMMENT

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When there's no "M" in your BM OK, so you haven't been eating as much fiber as you should. That's why this is happening, right? Not necessarily. Studies show that low oxygen and carbon dioxide levels caused by quick, shallow breathing deprive your digestive organs of the fuel they need, resulting in constipation. Rhythmic breathing can be a great way to massage your digestive organs to get things, er, moving along.

To contract your digestive muscles, you want to alternate short, explosive exhales with longer inhales. But you've gotta be sure your exhales are powered by deep contractions in the lower belly, not in your chest. Here's how: Sit up straight with your feet planted on the floor. Cup one hand around the other and press gently against your lower stomach to feel where the contraction is coming from. Quickly contract your lower stomach, pushing a burst of air out of your lungs, then quickly release the contractions so your stomach sucks air back into your lungs. Repeat at about one exhale-inhale every one to two seconds and aim for 25 cycles. Combine this breath with a tummy-contracting move for best results: Inhale deeply, flexing your stomach muscles as you inhale. Hold your breath, and contract and expand your stomach rhythmically for as long as you can. Exhale completely. Repeat three to five times.

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