Breathe

"If I had to limit my advice on healthier living to just one tip, it would be to learn to breathe correctly." Dr. Andrew Weil.

How could we forget something as natural as breathing?  Stress alters our natural breathing patterns; causing us to breathe 15-20 times per minute, instead of the more optimal 5 times per minute.  Shallow, rapid breathing causes our bodies to think we are in 'fight/flight' mode, and stress hormones flood our bodies.  So, as dementia caregivers, one of the ways we can counteract the damage of the stress we encounter in our roles, is to breathe:  deeply and slowly.  Let us stop several times during the day and notice our breathing.  Let us slow it down.  Breathe in 1, 2, 3, 4 and out 1, 2, 3, 4.  An easy way to assist our bodies toward wellness.