Specialists say if we train ourselves to breathe a little bit slower we can have long-term health benefits.

Slow breathing stimulates the vagus nerve, which runs from the stem of the brain to the abdomen. It is part of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s “rest and digest” activities, as well as for many of our “fight or flight” responses.

The vagus-nerve activity causes the heart rate to decrease as we exhale.  The nerve can be activated when breathing at about five to seven breaths a minute.

The vagus nerve’s response includes the release of different chemicals, including acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that acts as an anti-inflammatory and slows down digestion and the heart rate.

In case of epilepsy, for instance, medical devices are sometimes implanted to stimulate the vagus nerve.

In case of asthma and panic disorders specialists recommend taking shallow breaths through the nose at a regular rhythmic speed of eight to 13 breaths a minute. Deep breathing can be dangerous for these patients.

Specialists recommend never forget about regular and slow breathing. It helps you cope with many problems.