The Power of Your Breath

We breathe all day long without ever thinking about it. Usually, this type of breathing is shallow and relatively fast-paced, especially when we’re stressed.

When something causes us stress, our body reacts by increasing the heart rate, tensing up muscles, and increasing blood pressure. This state is also known as “fight or flight.” While this response is critical in dangerous situations, it can wreak havoc on the body and mind when it never shuts off. When you spill a cup of coffee, have less money in your bank account than you thought, or are generally feeling anxious, your body remains in a state of stress.

What can you do about it? Pay attention to your breath.

Shallow breathing—the kind that naturally occurs when we’re stressed—limits the diaphragm’s range of motion and doesn’t allow the lungs to get their full share of oxygenated air, thus making you feel short of breath and more anxious.

Deep abdominal breathing encourages full oxygen exchange, which allows your lungs to get what they need and subsequently slow the heartbeat and lower or stabilize blood pressure.

Abdominal breathing occurs when you breathe in a way that your stomach rises and falls while your chest remains still with every breath.

Take a moment to look down and see how you’re breathing.

When you’re feeling overwhelmed: 4-7-8 breath

This type of breathing slows down and calms the body. Use if you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, angry, triggered, or having trouble sleeping.

To perform, start by emptying the lungs of air, then breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds. Hold your breath for 7 seconds, then exhale for 8 seconds. Repeat at least four times.

When you need an energy boost: Box Breathing

Also called the 4-4-4-4 breathing, or square breathing, this technique was developed for Navy SEALS and can help heighten performance while providing stress relief. Use it in the morning to wake up, in the middle of the day, or before any activity that requires your attention.

To perform, release the air in your chest and hold your breath for 4 seconds. Breathe out the nose for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 4 seconds, then exhale for 4 seconds. Repeat this cycle for five minutes to feel the full effects.