The Importance of Breath

Lynnette Dickinson. Provisional Psychologist

One of the most powerful tools we have for calming our nervous system is something we are doing every day and, mostly, don't even notice. 

Our breathing rate is inextricably linked to our autonomic nervous system - shallow, rapid breaths where we unconsciously focus on the inhale is linked to the fight, flight or freeze response or the sympathetic nervous system and long, deep breaths are associated with relax, rest digest response or parasympathetic nervous system. 

Fight, flight or freeze is an emergency response and is very useful when we are in danger. In fact, it is a necessary protective response to fear. However, when we live in this state for an indefinite time, we experience this as anxiety and anxiety not only impacts on our capacity to think, learn, organise ourselves and remember, it has long term effects on our health. 

The Breathing App helps you reconnect with your breath, slow down your breath and hack your autonomic nervous system.

You can switch your nervous system from fight, flight or freeze to relax, rest and digest in a few breaths.

In addition, you can set the frequency and length of breathing practice to suit your lifestyle, and most importantly, the app brings awareness to the power of your breath. 

And there are plenty of breathing apps available, so if this one doesn’t work for you, keep trying until you find one that does.

Your breath is always with you, it is free and can be your ticket to a peaceful mind and a healthy body.

​Three long sighs is all you need to start your journey to relax, rest and digest.

You can download the breathing app from the Apple store or Google play here:

Android

Apple iOs

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT WITH LYNNETTE

Lynnette Dickinson. Provisional Psychologist

Lynnette is passionate about working with adolescents and incorporates her meditation and yoga training into her practice. 
"My intention is to create a safe environment where you or your child can feel heard to explore your situation and feelings."