Take a deep breath
We can't avoid all sources of stress in our lives, but we can develop healthier ways of responding to them. One way is to invoke relaxation through deep breathing.
Deep breathing activates your parasympathetic nervous system, which calms you down. In addition, deep breathing elevates the happy hormone serotonin, which will help improve your mood.
The quality of your breath helps enhance your ability to learn, focus, concentrate, and memorize too. This is because the brain requires a great deal of oxygen to function. The increased oxygen intake will help you achieve clarity and feel grounded and productive.
When we are stressed or experience uncomfortable feelings such as anger or pain, our breath becomes shallow, and our muscle tissues contract. Deep breathing will help you release this, making you feel less tense.
The next time you feel stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, try the Four-Square Breathing Exercise:
Sit comfortably in a chair, with your feet on the floor and hands in your lap.
Inhale slowly through the nose for a count of four, allowing the air to fill your belly.
Hold the breath in for a count of four.
Exhale slowly through the mouth for a count of four.
Finally, hold your breath for a count of four.
Repeat the sequence for four minutes.
Your breath is a faithful friend you can always count on to make you feel better!