We take the process of breathing for granted as it automatically happens to keep us alive. But could we be using how we oxygenate ourselves as another therapeutic tool? I talk to patients a lot about the importance of breathing exercises. It’s effective, free, achievable at any age and easier than you think. If you breathe deep down into your diaphragm and slow down between the inhale and exhale you activate the vagus nerve and furthermore the parasympathetic nervous system, which tells the brain you are safe, and helps to instill a sense of relaxation and calm.