Answer this question to the best of your ability:
What role does the breath play in calming our nervous system?
The breath plays a significant role in calming our nervous system. When we focus on our breath, it helps us to slow down and regulate our heart rate, which in turn reduces stress levels. This is because the breath is closely connected to our autonomic nervous system, which controls our body's involuntary functions like heartbeat and respiratory rate. By consciously controlling our breath, we can activate the parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) response, counteracting the effects of the stress-inducing sympathetic (fight-or-flight) response. This process helps to calm our mind and body, fostering a greater sense of relaxation and mental clarity.