The Mental Mom

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The Science of Breathwork: A Mom’s Guide to Reclaiming Calm and Clarity

Let’s face it: motherhood doesn’t come with a pause button.

From the moment we open our eyes in the morning (or after a sleepless night), we’re juggling schedules, emotions, and an ever-growing to-do list. But what if I told you there’s a built-in superpower we all have, just waiting to help us navigate the chaos?

Enter: breathwork.
Breathwork isn’t just some woo-woo wellness trend. It’s science-backed, easy to implement, and an absolute game-changer for busy moms. Let’s break it down and figure out how this magical tool can transform not only your day-to-day but your entire outlook on life.

What is Breathwork, and Why Should Moms Care?

Breathwork is the practice of intentionally controlling your breathing to influence your mental, emotional, and physical state. Sounds simple, right? But the impact? Massive.

When you’re stressed (think: toddler tantrums, late school drop-offs, or a spilled coffee when you really needed it), your body kicks into fight-or-flight mode. Your heart races, your mind spirals, and your breathing becomes shallow. Breathwork flips the switch. It helps you tap into your parasympathetic nervous system—the one responsible for rest and relaxation.

The Science: How Breathwork Works

Breathwork is like a direct line to your nervous system, which controls how your body reacts to stress. Here’s the magic formula:

Breathing deeply signals your brain to calm down, slowing your heart rate and reducing cortisol (the stress hormone).

• It balances your oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, helping your brain function better. Translation: fewer mom meltdowns.

• It activates the vagus nerve, which promotes relaxation and reduces inflammation.

Research shows that intentional breathing can:

• Lower blood pressure.

• Improve focus

BREATHWORK RESOURCES

The Breath Space

• Website: thebreathspace.co

• Offers free beginner-friendly guided breathwork sessions and videos to help you get started.

Insight Timer

• Website/App: insighttimer.com

• A free app with thousands of guided meditations, including breath-focused exercises specifically tailored for stress relief and relaxation.

YouTube Channels

The Oxygen Advantage: Offers science-backed techniques and breathwork practices.

Wim Hof Method: Learn beginner-level breathwork inspired by Wim Hof’s powerful techniques.

Breathe by Dr. Belisa

• Website: thebreathingclass.com

• Dr. Belisa Vranich provides free introductory videos on functional breathing techniques for stress management and improved health.

Box Breathing by the Navy SEAL Foundation

• Website: navysealfoundation.org

• Free guides and videos teaching the simple, effective box-breathing technique used by Navy SEALs to reduce stress and boost focus.

PS - be sure to subscribe to the weekly newsletter, if you haven’t already…I have updates on my book coming soon! My book is packed full of insights that will blow your mind, and a protocol that will set you on a path of true health!

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