Take a deep breath because there is something you need to know. Ongoing research has shown that proper breathing can be an intelligent way to respond to chronic fatigue, high blood pressure, stress and other ailments - no health club membership required.

Each one of us takes about 20 000 breaths a day. Still, the influence of breathing on human health goes largely unnoticed. Only a few people realize that shallow breathing is linked to stress, sub-par mental performance, fatigue and increased risk of heart disease. However, breathe correctly and you will be able to release tension and improve your physical and mental wellness.

The importance of deep breathing

Deep breathing raises levels of oxygen in our blood and presents a wide range of benefits for our health. "If I had to limit my advice on healthier living to just one tip, it would be simply to learn how to breathe correctly", says internationally acclaimed alternative health icon Dr. Andrew Weil. Take a look and discover how deep breathing can transform your health:

• Lowers blood pressure

• Relieves emotional issues, including stress and tension

• Improves the quality of sleep

• Raises our energy levels

• Helps break down salt

• Improves circulation

• Helps to promote weight loss

• Improves athletic performance

Pay attention to the way you breathe - it may be one of the most important things you can do for your health. A study led by Arthur Craig, PhD at St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center even suggests that a controlled breathing at a slowed rate can significantly reduce feelings of pain.

Are you a shallow breather? Try this simple exercise

You can reverse your body's natural reaction to stressful situations by practicing deep breathing exercises. Here is a simple, yet effective exercise you can try right away to embrace the wisdom of taking a deep breath:

• Allow yourself to be free of distractions for at least ten minutes

• Inhale for 6 seconds

• Hold your breath for a count of 18

• Exhale for 12 seconds

• Repeat at least 10 times - twice a day

• Watch how you feel

When you breathe slowly and consciously, your body reacts in many positive ways. Without oxygen there is no life. It is a key element of life force and an invaluable aid to peak performance, life extension and perfect health. Are you getting enough of it?