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Meditation and diaphragmatic breathing has long been prescribed to help promote relaxation and calm, but what studies have been performed to show the science behind these claims?
A research study looked into the effects of diaphragmatic breathing on cognition, affect, and cortisol responses to stress. A breathing group received 20 sessions of intensive training over an eight week period, and were compared to a control group. All participants completed pre- and post- tests of sustained attention affect.
Results showed diaphragmatic breathing could improve sustained attention, affect, and reduce cortisol levels. This highlights the importance of a mind-body practice to promote relaxation and calm. Given today's high stressed environments, it would be worth investing time in our own health promotion by learning how to breathe with our diaphragm and feel the benefits.