Try Box Breathing to Reduce Anxiety and Stress

Focused breath control can increase attention, calm the body and mind, and lower stress. Box breathing is a useful technique for beginners and experienced practitioners alike.

Find a comfortable seated position. This exercise should not be painful or straining–if it is, stop it or try fewer counts. You can set a timer for five minutes to help you keep track of how long you are practicing box breathing, or simply do this technique regularly for a few minutes a day.

1. Breathe out slowly, releasing all the air in your lungs.

2. Breathe in through your nose, and slowly count to four in your mind. Notice your lungs filling with air.

3. Pause here and gently hold your breath as you slowly count to four in your mind.

4. Breathe out slowly for a count of four.

5. Pause here and gently hold your breath, and slowly count to four in your mind.

6. Repeat for five cycles or if you've set a timer until your timer finishes.

Read the complete article available at Psychology Today!

Reflection:

Would you try box breathing? If you did try, how was it?

#BoxBreathing #Mindfulness #Anxiety #Stress

If you liked this article, you might also like, "Calming Your Brain Through Breathwork"

Also check out, "Can Five Deep Breaths Really Relieve Stress?"