Health and Wellness

Just Breathe: The Importance of Breathing for Your Brain

November 12, 2024 / by Louigi Balao / 3 mins read

Have you ever consciously taken a breath? No, unless you were told to. Breathing is an automatic process, which is why it is often taken for granted. Beyond keeping us alive, the way we breathe can significantly impact our brains' health and the way we think. So, if you are ever at a standstill for work or school, take a step back and see if you are breathing properly. 

The brain’s fuel. Did you know the brain consumes around 20% of the oxygen we breathe? Oxygen is vital for the brain's function as it powers the neurons that regulate our thoughts and emotions. That is why people recommend that those who are experiencing a panic attack take deep breaths to supply a consistent amount of oxygen to their brain—that is, minus the paper bag you see on television–it’s for hyperventilation. 

Once proper breathing is running, it leads to enhanced cognitive function. Studies have shown that deep breathing increases the levels of both oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, which in turn boosts brain function. Improved breathing can lead to better focus, memory, problem-solving, and demon-slayer techniques. 

 

From Daily Burn Official GIPHY

So take a step back and breathe momentarily; it can mean the world. 

Practicing slow breathing will also increase mindfulness, an affinity for reflection, and deeper attention to what is happening now. 

Breathing and stress. This is a constant in our lives but how we manage it makes all the difference. Yes, you got it right. One of the simplest yet effective ways to combat stress is through controlled breathing. Deep, slow breaths activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a state of calm and relaxation. This practice, often called diaphragmatic or belly breathing, can lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress, and help clear the mind.

 

From Super Simple Official GIPHY

But if you are located in busy places like Metro Manila, breathing may be difficult without the proper filtration. Polluted air can introduce harmful substances into our lungs and bloodstream, potentially hurting our brain function. Therefore, ensuring clean air, at least in our living and working spaces, can enhance the benefits of good breathing practices. 

This is where the Crabtek Smart Air Purifier comes into play. This bad boy is designed to filter out pollutants and allergens, ensuring that the air we breathe is as clear as possible. Incorporating advanced HEPA filtration technology, the Crabtek Smart Air Purifier captures 99.97% of airborne particles, including dust, pollen, and some bacteria and viruses.

 

Courtesy of Next Upgrade Shop

This supports overall health and optimizes the oxygen supply to our brains, enhancing the benefits of mindful breathing. So, if you are keen on keeping your mind function and your lungs happy, you can acquire your own air purifier in the Next Upgrade Shop


Author

AUTHOR

Louigi Balao

Content Writer

Louigi, better known as Gi, is a content writer for Next Upgrade’s Tech and Gaming sections. In his free time, he enjoys long strolls in his house, loves fantasizing about anime ships that will never bear fruit, and constantly complains about his scuffed Korean backdashes. If you need a quick 3 AM chit-chat, he is your guy. 

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