Breathe Better, Live Better: The Power of Proper Breathing Techniques

Dec 8

At A Better Body Massage, we know that true relaxation begins long before a massage therapist’s hands touch your skin. It starts with your breath. Breathing is something we do around 20,000 times a day, yet most of us rarely think about it. Learning how to breathe properly can help you relieve stress, improve circulation, and even enhance the benefits of your massage.

Why Breathing Matters

Your breath is directly connected to your nervous system. Deep, slow breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, the “rest and digest” mode that calms your body and lowers your heart rate. Shallow, rapid breathing, on the other hand, keeps your body in fight-or-flight mode, making it harder to relax and heal.

Scientific studies show that controlled breathing can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone), reduce blood pressure, and increase oxygen flow to your muscles and brain all of which help you feel centered and rejuvenated.

Three Breathing Techniques to Try

1. Diaphragmatic (Belly) Breathing

This is one of the most effective ways to calm the mind and body.

How to do it: Sit or lie down comfortably. Place one hand on your chest and one on your belly. Inhale slowly through your nose, allowing your belly to rise while your chest stays still. Exhale slowly through your mouth.
Why it helps: It encourages full oxygen exchange, improves lung function, and helps release muscle tension.

2. Box Breathing (4-4-4-4 Technique)

Used by Navy SEALs and mindfulness experts alike, box breathing enhances focus and reduces anxiety.

How to do it: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, and hold again for 4 seconds before the next inhale.
Why it helps: This rhythmic pattern brings balance to your nervous system and promotes mental clarity perfect before or after a massage.

3. Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana)

A traditional yoga breathing practice known to improve energy flow and reduce stress.

How to do it: Using your thumb and ring finger, close one nostril, inhale through the other, then switch sides for the exhale. Continue alternating.
Why it helps: It balances the left and right hemispheres of the brain and enhances focus and calm.

Breathing and Massage: The Perfect Partnership

When you combine mindful breathing with therapeutic massage, your body responds more deeply. Your muscles relax faster, your circulation improves, and your mind releases tension more easily. Next time you’re on the table at A Better Body Massage, try focusing on your breath. You'll notice the difference in how your body melts into the session.

Final Thought

Breathing is the bridge between your mind and body. Master it, and you’ll unlock a natural tool for healing, stress relief, and overall wellness both on and off the massage table.

Ready to breathe, relax, and renew?
Book HERE for your next session at A Better Body Massage and experience the power of mindful breathing in every touch.