Mental Health Tiny Post: Breath Holding

Did you know that people with chronic anxiety often hold their breath? It’s not intentional, it just sort of happens. I did not realize until my early 40s that I do that routinely. In fact, when I was pregnant with my youngest, I would be sitting on the couch reading (my most favoritist relaxing activity), and would suddenly gasp. I had been holding my breath and my poor fetus needed me to breathe! . Since I realized I do that, I’ve tried to practice mindfulness in deep, even breathing, especially in a stressful situation. Not only does it take my mind off what is happening, but it gives my brain some much needed oxygen. Once again I am reminded that anxiety affects more than one dimension of life.