How to Breathe to Reduce Stress

Stress is the cause of many illnesses, dis-ease and anxiety. Proper breathing can help alleviate built-up tension and help in relaxing the body and mind. Practice this simple method and breathe to reduce stress.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. First, recognize that when undergoing stress, humans have a tendency to hold their breath. Holding the breath greatly reduces oxygen intake and blocks the flow of energy in the body.

2. Next, breathe. Inhale deeply through the nostrils while expanding the abdomen. Usually a count to five will do the trick.

3. Then, exhale through the nostrils until the lungs feel completely emptied and the abdomen is concave. Do this for a count of seven or more, depending on lung capacity.

4. Continue with this slow, conscious breathing for several minutes or until the tension is noticeably and gratefully released from the body.

5. Finally, remember to use this proper breathing method when faced with situations or experiencing thoughts that create tension. There are many ways to relax and learning to breathe to reduce stress is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways of doing so!

Tips & Warnings

• In Ashtanga/Vinyasa Yoga, this method of breathing is called the ujjayi or ocean breath. It usually creates a loud sound similar to hissing or ocean waves.
• Remember to practice this type of breathing whenever you begin to feel the least bit stressed.
• If you are in public or unable to complete this exercise for other reasons, a few deep breaths is a good temporary fix.

[mattsaboy]

on 9/6/2009 Great article I give it 5 stars and a recommendation.

[writesource]

on 8/12/2009 I love this article! I do deep breathing all of the time to reduce stress. It really works, 5*!

[jenng]

on 8/8/2009 Great article on How to Breathe to Reduce Stress 5*

[FrazzledNanny]

on 7/26/2009 Thanks for the information on breathing to reduce stress. 5*

[Delaplane]

on 7/25/2009 Thank you for the ideas.