The Secrets to Happiness: Secret #2

Oxygen is life. It is the key to Secret #2 which is:

Breathe deeply.

Big secret, isn't it? But apparently most of us really don't take full advantage of our lung capacity.

So, the idea behind this secret is to learn how to breath properly and then set aside one minute a couple of times per day to practice (you don't have to sit like her, either, but you should sit or stand with good posture.)

To take a full breath, use your diaphragm to pull air into your lungs. This will cause your belly to expand. Then expand the rib cage to continue drawing in air. Finally, expand the chest to fill the tops of your lungs. Then exhale all of it, in reverse order, through the mouth. Try to empty the lungs. Do this five or six times and your minute will pass quickly. Take your time while breathing. Relax.

It is a stress reducing activity. I usually do this while sitting in a comfortable chair. When I am finished, I feel relaxed. There are supposed to be mental benefits to this in addition to the physical and emotional. I don't pay attention to that, but I'm guessing it's true.

Sit down, clear your head, take the deep breath and let it go. Let me know how that works for you.