Breathing technique no help for hot flashes

Despite the widespread belief that taking slow, deep breaths can relieve the discomfort of hot flashes during menopause, women in a Journal of General Internal Medicine study found no benefit from the technique. Slow breathing, also called paced respiration, involves taking six to eight breaths every minute. The method is commonly encouraged for relaxation, and is thought to affect the autonomic nervous system. The North American Menopause Society and many physicians encourage women to practice the technique twice a day for 15 minutes at a time, and also at the onset of a hot flash.

Bonnie: I would not stop this practice because slow breathing is good for stress relief, lowering blood pressure, and allows your mind and body to pause during the day.