In times of chaos, it often helps to take a deep breath. Many of our customers turn to our Breathe Easier or Deep Breath synergy blends to help align their breathing and find stability. Breathwork, also referred to as focused or mindful breathing, has recently gained national attention and proven to benefit the overall mental and physical health of participants.

Numerous scientific studies are finding that breathwork therapy can have a huge effect on the brain, heart, digestive system and immune system. Quick and deep breathing helps our bodies release more carbon dioxide, prompting the blood to become more alkaline and retain more oxygen. Almost immediately, breathing exercises can change blood pressure.

When practiced regularly, breathwork can alter the body’s stress responses. Instead of going into “fight or flight” mode during anxiety-producing events, you can actually learn to remain calm and in control by practicing breathwork. Many medical professionals recommend breathwork as a natural remedy to those suffering from chronic stress, which often quickens the heart rate and induces rapid breathing. Deep breathing sends a message to the brain to calm down, a tool that you can use in almost any situation.

What is breathwork?

Although there are various techniques and types of breathwork, the term generally applies to any therapy that uses breathing as a tool to improve mental, physical or spiritual health. Abdominal or belly breathing is the action of inhaling through your nose as your lower belly rises. This practice ensures even the lowest part of your lungs receive proper oxygen.

Breathwork involves various breathing exercises sometimes led by an expert guide. Continuous circular breathing is when participants inhale and exhale without holding their breath at any point. The connected breath exercise involves taking four sets of four short breaths, followed by one deep breath. Other breathwork integrations include visualization, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation.

How can essential oils enhance my breathwork?

The natural properties of many essential oils can help open up airways to allow oxygen to flow more freely through the respiratory system. Favorites like Lavender, Bergamot and Chamomile essential oils can help calm and ground the body so you can focus fully on breathing. Natural expectorants, which help limit allergic responses and clear excess mucous, include Lemon and Frankincense essential oils.

Our top EO Picks to improve breathwork:

1. Breathe In, Breathe Out: Safe for kids 2 years old and older, Breathe In, Breathe Out has an aroma reminiscent of the great outdoors yet is gentle enough to be used all day.
2. Breathe Easier: One of our most popular synergy blends, Breathe Easier has a cooling and warming effect that can help clear congestion.
3. Deep Breath roll-on: Brimming with Eucalyptus and Tea Tree, the Deep Breath roll-on helps relieve seasonal allergies for better inhalation. Roll it on your wrists before you start your breathwork.
4. Douglas Fir: Like many coniferous oils, Douglas Fir is antiseptic and often used to support respiratory health. Its aroma is sweet and fresh with citrusy notes and can be stimulating to the senses
5. Eucalyptus: It has a minty, vibrant and refreshing aroma that is a common ingredient in cold care products, chest salves, and inhalants. It is cooling, invigorating and soothing.
6. Exhale: With a minty and citrusy aroma, Exhale promotes a healthy respiratory system while enabling effortless breath. By helping to cleanse and soothe the airways, Exhale can have a soothing effect on the body and mind.
7. Laurel Leaf: High in eucalyptol, the main compound found in Eucalyptus Essential Oil, it helps open up any chest tightness and fight symptoms of allergies.
8. Palo Santo: Yoga instructors often diffuse Palo Santo during a class to help inspire clear meditation while helping to promote full body breathing. It also can enhance creativity and help you maintain a steady focus.
9. Respiratory Ease: Its clear and refreshing aroma can relax lung spasms and gently release stale air from the lungs.
10. Verbena: When your chest aches with coughs and congestion, Verbena can restore gentle breathing and promote overall health.