Have you ever stopped and just focused on your breathe? We do it during meditation or maybe during exercise, but have you done it throughout the day?
Taking a deep breathe helps activate a relaxation response in the body. Learning breathing techniques can improve mood, calm the nervous system, improve circulation and reduce stress. Reducing stress decreases cortisol levels and inflammation. Sounds like winning situation for something we already do!
A common breathing technique is the 4-7-8 method:
breathe in for 4 count
hold for 7 count
exhale slowly for 8 count
Imagine you are having an anxiety attack or a stressful day at work or with the kids. That feeling can ruin the rest of your day very quickly, but if you take a minute to focus on your breathe using the 4-7-8 method, your day can be pleasant again.
Life is full of challenges. It is about the response to these challenges that shapes our mindset and health. Check out my new Breathe keychain to remind you of the 4.7.8 breathing technique.
I am holding space for you.
Mary
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