Keeping our nervous system calm can help overall health…including immunity.

When stress is high it is normal for our nervous systems to go on high alert. It enables our senses to peak so we may be at the ready for any dangerous encounters. However, if the nervous system is heightened for a long period of time it can cause our immune systems to be compromised.

To keep our anxiety from getting the best of us and our immunity high it is essential to keep breathing. Deep breaths slow down our heart and inhibit the nervous system, taking us out of that fight or flight mode. Here is a simple breathing exercise called the Cycle of 4 Breaths to use if you find yourself in a moment of panic or chaos:

• Inhale for 4 counts

• Hold breath for 4 counts

• Exhale for 4 counts

• Repeat 3 more times

Happy breathing!