Take A Breath

Do you notice that after taking a deep breath, even one, you start to feel better? Deep breathing lowers stress because it sends a message to your brain to calm down and relax. The brain listens and starts to slow your heart rate and reduce tension. Breathing is something that we can regulate and control, even when life feels "out of control". Deep breathing is a relaxation skill that can deeply influence anyone’s health and happiness. Try it as a useful tool to achieve a clear state of mind.

For stress relief, try the Four-Seven-Eight Breathing Technique: Start inhaling through the nose, then count to 4 as you fill your lungs with air. Keep the air in for 7 seconds, and then exhale through the mouth, slowly counting to 8.

To invigorate and stimulate, try the Bellows Breath or Stimulating Breath Technique: Inhale and exhale through your nose rapidly, keeping your mouth closed. (This may be noisy, so it’s a good one to practice in private.) Try for three in and out breaths per second. Attempt to do this for this for 15 seconds. So next time you feel like you need a lift, instead of reaching for a sugary snack or cup of coffee, try the Stimulating Breath Technique to feel invigorated. When you need to calm down and relax, leave the alcohol and give the Four-Seven-Eight a shot.