Proper breathing is essential to our overall health. Unfortunately, most of us do not know how to breathe correctly.

According to www.thelifeco.com/, an online healthy living guide, when breathing is shallow and restricted, it robs us of oxygen and increases tension.

The Bible tells us that God breathed life into us:

"the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being" - Genesis 2:7

Therefore, taking the time to consciously engage in proper breathing exercises is the practical way to strengthening and renewing our entire being. We must exercise the discipline to resort to conscious breathing meditation whenever we need to: when we are feeling stressed, tired, or when we just need to relax. Breathing meditation involves quieting the mind and focussing on the breath.

Here is a simple Deep Breathing Technique you should practice everyday and/or when you need to:

1. Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight, either on the floor in a crossed legged position or in a chair with your feet firmly planted on the floor.

2. Close your eyes, then take a deep breath while extending your stomach muscles, then exhale slowly while pulling in your stomach muscles.

3. Whenever your mind wanders from your breath, slowly bring your awareness back to your breathing.

4. Feel free to incorporate scripture into your deep breathing practice/meditation. Select a scripture (preferablly one you have already memorized) and repeat the scripture in-between each breath.

*Repeat the sequence until the Word of God has permeated your entire being!

Once you have mastered the steps above, there are more advanced breathing techniques you can learn to deepen the Biblical meditation experience.