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Deep Breathing and the Parasympathetic Nervous System: The Healing Power of Your Breath

Published May 23rd, 2025 by Camarata Chiropractic

In the fast-paced world we live in, stress has become a constant. Most people live in a state of chronic tension—mentally, emotionally, and physically. This ongoing stress keeps the body locked in “fight or flight” mode, governed by the sympathetic nervous system.

But there is an antidote built into your body’s design: your parasympathetic nervous system—your rest, recovery, and healing state. One of the most powerful, free, and accessible ways to activate it? Deep breathing.

At Camarata Chiropractic & Wellness, we emphasize nervous system health as the foundation for true healing. Deep, intentional breathing is one of the most effective tools to help regulate your nervous system and bring your body back into balance.

What Is the Parasympathetic Nervous System?

Your autonomic nervous system has two main branches:

Sympathetic nervous system: Activates the fight or flight response. Increases heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension.
Parasympathetic nervous system: Activates the rest and digest response. Slows the heart rate, calms the body, supports digestion, and promotes healing.

When the parasympathetic nervous system is activated, your body can finally shift into repair mode—allowing tissues to heal, inflammation to calm, and internal systems to function optimally.