Sometimes the simple things are most effective

When you are stressed out, try slow breathing. Breathing is a tool that is available at any time, whether you are super busy or can take a time out.

First just check in. Many times when we are feeling stress, there can be a tendency to hold our breath. Simply, stopping to check in on breathing can help to notice oneself. Are you breathing from the top of the chest? Are you taking shallow breaths? This is encouraging stress response. Stress response is not great for clear thinking.

Second, let the breath flow. You can allow the belly to expand and take a full breath and this will allow the opportunity for more relaxation to be available to you. It might help to slow down your breathing by exhaling all the way. Counting to 7 on the inhale and exhale might help facilitate slowing down.

There are many other breathing methods that can encourage more rest and digest and less fight or flight (stress response). Alternate nostril breathing, box breathing, hand on the belly breathing. The more you practice this, the more opportunity you have to get the benefits from it. I encourage practicing on a trigger so you can get in the habit. The trigger could be stressful feelings or more preventative like before eating, during 10 am break, etc. Find what works for you. 😊