Breathing is essential to life. Surprisingly, only a few of us breathe consciously. Normally, we call breathing a natural involuntary action and pay no attention to it. 

But did you know breathing consciously can reduce stress, improve lung function and relieve chronic pain? 

A 2017 study published in Psychology, Health and Medicine suggests controlled deep breaths improve psychological well-being. In 2011, one study found that a 2-minute abdominal breathing at the rate of 6 breaths per minute significantly improved breathing in patients with respiratory illness. 

Moreover, a wealth of scientific study suggests that even a few minutes of conscious breathing practice per day can help you sleep better. 

So, what are you waiting for? 

Find a peaceful place, sit down with your back straight and practice deep abdominal breathing for a few minutes. After all, you don’t have to wait for the New Year to start something good.

An increasing body of scientific evidence suggests the key to good health could be hidden somewhere inside your gut. 

Trillions of “friendly” bacteria living in your gut could regulate anything from your mind to immunity. Probiotics are a great way to promote health and wellness while reducing the risk of many chronic diseases. 

Not only do these bacteria promote healthy digestion but also boost immunity (great for flu season), reduce inflammation, ease depression symptoms, and help to control obesity. 

Another thing to know about a healthy gut is the “food” for probiotics. We call these foods “prebiotics”. Some naturally prebiotic-rich foods are garlic, onions, bananas, yogurt, and asparagus.

See: 3 Ways Probiotics Boost Immunity & Prevent the Common Cold

Inflammation is more than a bump on your knee. 

Chronic inflammation that occurs at the cellular level is linked to a number of chronic illnesses and conditions. 

These include accelerated aging, chronic infections, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and the list goes on. 

Sadly, an average Western diet only seems to fuel inflammation through its unhealthful ingredients. Think of sugar in soda, harmful fats in fast foods, and a long list of processed foods you take daily. 

Moreover, limited physical activity is another culprit when it comes to chronic inflammation. An anti-inflammatory diet that contains various inflammation-fighting ingredients along with regular exercise could be your savior.

Explore further: The Role of Inflammation in Chronic Disease