As we become more mindful of noticing our senses we may also start to become more consciously aware of our breathing. Breathing happens automatically we never have to consciously think about it. But when we do start to notice our breathing we start to become consciously aware of our bodies.

What we think and feel affects the way our bodies react. If we feel stress,  anxiety or pain this affects our internal nervous system known as the autonomic nervous system. This has three branches sympathetic, parasympathetic and enteric. We will explore these individually over the next week and coming months, hopefully in a way that doesn’t seem too scientific but with enough information for you to piece together any missing parts that may be affecting your health.

Understanding how the brain affects these may help you understand how to reduce your weight, waist size, blood pressure, cholesterol, depression, anxiety and pain. Being mindful of how the brain affects our body and how the body affects the mind may help you gain and take control! This can help to improve your mood, improve your digestion and improve your immunity.

Over the next few weeks and months hopefully you will gain a greater insight into how your mind and body work together and how small changes in lifestyle can improve mental and physical wellbeing.

If you choose to, take the next few minutes to listen to a mindfulness based breath awareness meditation

By Sharon Elizabeth Best