Looking for a quick and easy way to relax whenever you wish? You don’t need an hour of mediation or yoga to bring you into a state of calm. Just breathe! Slow deep breathing is one of the best ways to lower stress. It increases oxygen flow to every cell of your body, lowers heart rate, slows breathing pace and lowers blood pressure. And it stops stressful mental chatter. All in just a few minutes. 

Hers are two simple breathing exercises you can do anytime. Closing your eyes is preferable but not necessary. Of course, only do these exercises with closed eyes when it is safe to do so.

Calming Breath

Take a long, slow breath in through your nose, keeping your shoulders relaxed. Hold your breath to the count of 3. Exhale slowly through slightly opened lips to the count of 6. Feel the muscles in your face, jaw, shoulders and stomach relax. Feel tension melt away. Repeat this 3-4 times. 

Breathing Calming Affirmations

Breathe in slowly and silently say “relax”. Breathe out slowly and silently say “let go”. Repeat 3-4 times or longer.

If you wish, you change the affirmations. For instance,  say “I am” as you breath in and say “at peace” as you exhale.

You can do these anytime it’s safe to relax…even while waiting in line at the grocery store! 

These quick breathing exercises are an easy way to let go of your busy thoughts and the outside world and to center yourself. When you open your eyes, you’ll have reset your stress hormones and are able to continue your day with greater energy, calm and balance.