Our breathing changes when we’re feeling stressed or anxious, we tend to take short and shallow breaths, often referred to as chest breathing. For a number of us, we spend all day only chest breathing. Diaphragmatic breathing or ‘belly breathing’ is important to practice, as it allows for a full exchange of oxygen in the lungs, and can help to stabilise blood pressure and slow heart rate, our bodies sense this breathing as a state of relaxation.
How to:
Step 1. Take a slow breath in through the nose, breathing into your lower belly for about 4 seconds
Step 2. Hold that breath for 1–2 seconds
Step 3. Exhale slowly through the mouth for about 4 seconds
Step 4. Pause for 1–2 seconds before taking another breath
Meet the Nutritionist
Emma ‘Edamame’
Our in-house nutritionist Emma ‘Edamame’ was born and bred in mid Canterbury and has the health and wellbeing of Kiwis in mind at all times. As an NZ registered nutritionist (NZ Nutrition Society) with a bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Food Science from the University of Auckland, she makes sure we’re all getting our fresh dose of local veggies and our meals are full of nutritious substance – thanks for having our back Em (and our waistlines!). When it comes to New Zealand produce, Emma is a whizz, with fresh berries being her absolute fave. Intrigued to know what food this nutritionist couldn’t live without? Fresh fish and seafood, delivering on both flavour and nourishment. As well as ice cream, especially real fruit ice creams, in the summer time! Life’s all about a tasty balance, right?