The Science Behind Breathing

The Autonomic Nervous System

Your autonomic nervous system has two main branches: the sympathetic ("fight or flight") and parasympathetic ("rest and digest") systems. Breathing is one of the few autonomic functions you can consciously control.

Slow, deep breathing activates the vagus nerve, which is the main component of the parasympathetic nervous system. This activation helps reduce stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline while increasing relaxation hormones.

Different breathing patterns can either stimulate or calm your nervous system, giving you a powerful tool to regulate your physiological state at will.