How to Activate Your Rest and Digest Response

Deep breathing is something I am trying to get into the habit of more and more. Not only does it help calm me down when I'm feeling stressed, but it also provides more oxygen to my brain so I can think more clearly. Deep breathing can also improve digestion. It does so by taking us out of the sympathetic state (the fight or flight response hormones released during stress), to one of rest and digestion, which is the parasympathetic state. I encourage you to try this technique when you are feeling stressed and before your meals. Repeat the steps noted three or more times. Your mind, body and tummy will all thank you.