February hit hard this year and I am still recovering from it. Between juggling increased responsibilities at work and consistently overworking myself, I found my breathing becoming shallow and my energy reserves depleting. Many of us carry tension in our shoulders and chest without realizing it, creating a cycle that affects our respiratory health and overall wellbeing.
When our bodies are constantly in “fight or flight” mode, our breathing patterns change. We take quick, shallow breaths instead of the relaxed, nourishing ones our bodies need. This was exactly where I found myself – breathing from my chest rather than my diaphragm, feeling constantly short of breath, and struggling to find moments of calm.
The Connection Between Stress and Breathing
The relationship between stress and our respiratory system is often overlooked. When we are stressed, our muscles tense, including those in our chest and shoulders. This tension restricts our breathing, forcing us to take shorter, shallower breaths. Our body then receives less oxygen, triggering more stress responses—a vicious cycle that is difficult to break.
During my particularly challenging February, I noticed my productivity declining as my stress increased. Simple tasks required more effort, my focus wandered, and even my sleep suffered. My body was sending clear signals that something needed to change.
The Importance of Respiratory Self-Care
Respiratory wellness is not just about avoiding illness – it is about consciously creating space for your lungs to function optimally. Our breath is literally our life force, yet we rarely give it the attention it deserves until something goes wrong.
Here are some simple practices I have incorporated into my daily routine:
- Mindful breathing breaks: I set reminders throughout my workday to pause and take five deep breaths, expanding my abdomen rather than lifting my shoulders.
- Morning breathing ritual: Before reaching for my phone, I spend five minutes practicing diaphragmatic breathing, laying one hand on my chest and one on my belly to ensure proper technique.
- Hydration for respiratory health: I keep a water bottle at my desk and set goals throughout the day, knowing that well-hydrated respiratory membranes function better.
- Movement for lung capacity: I incorporate exercises that specifically expand the chest and stretch the intercostal muscles, even if just for five minutes daily.
These small practices help, but sometimes when stress reaches a certain threshold, we need something more immersive to truly reset our systems.
Finding Stillness Through Floatation Therapy
I’ve been doing floating whenever I need to de-stress and disconnect, as sometimes meditation does not work. Floatation therapy – also known as R.E.S.T. (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique) – has become my go-to practice for respiratory wellness.
During each session, I float effortlessly in a pod filled with 10 inches of water and Epsom salt. The water temperature matches my body temperature, creating the sensation of weightlessness. In this environment, free from external stimuli, I find the stillness my body craves.
As I settle into the float, I become acutely aware of my breathing. Without distractions, I can focus on the rhythm of my breaths and heartbeat. The muscle tension in my trapezius gradually releases, allowing my chest to expand more fully. I practice deep breathing exercises and eventually reach a state of profound calm.
When my 60-minute session ends, I emerge feeling both relaxed and energized. After floating, I experience the best sleep, breathing deeply and naturally throughout the night.
The Science Behind Floatation Therapy
The benefits of floatation therapy extend beyond just feeling good. Research suggests that the sensory deprivation environment triggers several physiological responses:
- Reduced cortisol levels: The stress hormone decreases significantly during floating sessions
- Lowered blood pressure: Many people experience temporary reduction in blood pressure
- Increased theta brain waves: These are associated with deep meditation and creativity
- Magnesium absorption: The Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) may help relax muscles
For respiratory health specifically, the weightless environment allows chest muscles to fully relax, often for the first time in weeks. Without gravity’s pull and in perfect temperature neutrality, your body can release patterns of tension that restrict breathing.
Local Resource for Reset and Renewal
For those living in the area seeking similar relief, I recently discovered Blissful Float Spa. This is not paid advertising – I am sharing because I believe in the power of this practice for respiratory wellness and overall self-care.
The owner created an environment that supports total relaxation from the moment you walk in. The lighting is soft, voices are hushed, and every detail seems designed to help you begin unwinding before you even enter the float pod.
Floatation therapy offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from constant stimulation and reconnect with your natural breathing patterns. The weightless environment removes pressure from your body, allowing your chest and diaphragm to move freely.
Is Floatation Therapy Right for You?
While floatation therapy worked wonderfully for my respiratory wellness, it’s not for everyone. It’s not recommended for those with:
- Open wounds or certain skin conditions
- Infectious diseases
- Seizure disorders
- Severe claustrophobia (though pods can be left partially open)
If you’re concerned, most reputable float spas offer an orientation where you can see the pod and ask questions before committing to a session. Many also offer options for those who prefer more control over their environment, such as keeping the pod lid partially open or having music playing throughout the session.
If you’re feeling constantly switched on, struggling with shallow breathing, or simply need time for yourself without external stimuli, floatation therapy might provide the reset you need.
Your Self-Care Action Plan
I challenge you to commit to one respiratory self-care practice this week:
- Book a float session if you’re curious and it’s accessible to you
- Schedule three 5-minute breathing breaks in your calendar each day
- Create a bedtime ritual that supports deep, restful breathing
- Try a new physical activity that expands your lung capacity
- Spend 15 minutes outdoors breathing fresh air without your phone
Start today. Your respiratory system supports you every minute of every day – it deserves your attention and care. Your body will thank you with improved energy, focus, and a sense of calm that radiates through all aspects of your life.
Remember that self-care is not selfish – it’s essential. Creating space to breathe fully and deeply is one of the most fundamental ways we can support our wellbeing. In our constantly connected world, taking time to disconnect and simply breathe might be the most revolutionary act of self-care you can practice.
The beauty of respiratory self-care is that your breath is always with you. No special equipment needed, no memberships required. Just a willingness to pause, notice, and nurture this vital function that we so often take for granted.