Do You Know How to Breathe So Your Body and Mind Can Relax?

You likely know how to breathe. For most, the inhale and exhale are automatic physiological tasks we aren't conscious of.

But do you know how to breathe so your body and mind can relax?

Stress causes over 90% of all illnesses, and we can reduce our chances of getting seriously ill by controlling how our bodies respond to the stressors.

You can reduce stress and respond rather than react by simply breathing intentionally for a few minutes each day.

I have taught stress management for over 30 years and have found that eight out of ten people do not know how to take a deep therapeutic breath.  

  Take 2 minutes and practice a few times throughout your day. If you feel stressed at work or home, take a few minutes to Breathe.  

This technique is so simple but overlooked (remember 5,5,5):

1. Breathe in through your nose, taking 5 seconds to take a deep breath in,

2. now HOLD IT for 5 seconds, and

3. then SLOWLY exhale, taking 5 seconds to let your breath out through your mouth.
   Note that your chest and lower stomach should rise as you fill your lungs.

   (Deep breathing can make you dizzy if you are not used to it, so make sure to do this sitting or lying down.)

Once you have this mastered, try holding for 6 seconds and, after a few weeks, 7 seconds.  

This simple practice can change how you feel and respond to others. It can even help you make better decisions about what you eat. 

If you would like to learn more about calming your thoughts check out this article.