Have You Got a Healthy Breath? Take the Test and Find Out!

Breathing is something we all do without thinking, but have you ever considered whether your breath is healthy? Your breath rate—how many breaths you take per minute—can provide valuable insights into your overall well-being. A healthy breath supports your nervous system, reduces stress, and promotes energy and focus. Curious about your breathing? Let’s test it!  

How to Test Your Breath Rate  
1. Find a quiet place and sit comfortably.  
2. Set a timer for 30 seconds.  
3. Count how many breaths you take during this time (each inhale counts as one).  
4. Double the number to find your breaths per minute rate.  

The average breath rate in the UK is circa 12 breaths per minute.If your score is close to or below this, that’s a good sign of healthy breathing! If your breath rate is above 12, it may indicate rapid or shallow breathing, which often involves the upper chest—a breathing dysfunction.  

Why Is a Healthy Breath Important?  
A slower breath rate has powerful benefits:  
- Calms the Nervous System: Activates the parasympathetic "rest and digest" response, reducing stress and anxiety.  
- Improves Oxygen Efficiency: Slower breathing helps your body use oxygen more effectively.  
- Supports Mental Clarity: A balanced breath rate can enhance focus and reduce brain fog.  
- Promotes Overall Well-Being: Healthy breathing supports energy, digestion, and emotional regulation.  

How to Improve Your Breath Rate  
If your breath rate is higher than average, don’t worry—there are simple practices to help you slow it down. One highly effective method is Coherence Breathing, popularised by Stephen Elliott. This technique involves:  
- Inhaling for 5.5 seconds and exhaling for 5.5 seconds (or adjusting to 5 or 6 seconds if easier).  
- Practicing low, diaphragmatic breathing—letting your belly expand on the inhale.  
- Doing this seated, lying down, or even walking.  

With consistent practice, coherence breathing can naturally reduce your breath rate over time, helping you develop healthier, more efficient breathing patterns.  

Your Breath is Just the Start  
Of course, there’s more to healthy breathing than just your breath rate, but this is a great place to begin. Becoming aware of your breathing patterns is the first step to creating a foundation for better health and well-being.  

So, what was your breath rate? If you’d like to discuss your results or learn more about improving your breathing, get in touch! Your healthiest breath is just a few mindful moments away.