Breathing is a fundamental, often unnoticed part of your life.

Breathing is a process that we take for granted. If you are feeling anxious, upset or afraid you may notice that you are breathing in a very shallow, rapid manner. This type of breathing, that prepares your body to fight or flight (run away), can quickly lead to faster heart rate, and feelings of being light-headed and breathless. Learning to breathe in a relaxed and deliberate manner can help bring you ‘back to base’ and help reduce the tension in your body.

Here’s how:

First, breathe out. Slowly expel all the air from your lungs. Do this breath slowly and calmly and keep going until there is no air left in your lungs.

Second, breathe in. But allow this to happen naturally. Don’t force the air in, but rather just let your lungs refill with air by themselves.

Breathe out again, pushing the air gently out of your lungs. Notice the air making its way through your body. Notice the way your shoulders rise and fall with each breath. Notice how your chest and stomach move with your breathing. Keep your mind focused on your breathing and the way your body reacts.

Breathe 4-6 slow breaths. Do it now...

What you can do

Practice your breathing often to ease tension. Practice your breathing often to connect with your body and come ‘back to base’ Even if you only take one very deep breath every now and then during your day, you will be training your brain to focus and quiet down.