Breathing Break Challenge

Welcome to your 4-7-8 Breathing Break Challenge.

This is one of my favorite techniques to destress during the day. And not only will it help you destress …

But you’ll feel firsthand how your breath affects your mood almost immediately.

A couple of quick breathing facts:

When you’re anxious or upset, your breathing can get rapid and shallow. This increases heart rate and muscle tension … and can make you feel worse.

When you’re calm and relaxed, you breathe more slowly and deeply – which can increase your sense of calm. It also can lower your heart rate & blood pressure.

Basically, breathing slowly and deeply sends a message to your brain to CHILL OUT – and your brain then sends this message to the rest of your body.

Here’s how to do the 4-7-8 Breathing Break:

Sit or stand comfortably, shoulders back to allow your chest and belly to expand and contract with your breath.

Take a slow, deep inhale through your nose. Count to 4 as you inhale.

Hold your breath for a 7 count.

Exhale for an 8 count.

Repeat this 3-5 times. You’ll feel your whole body relaxing!

(Extra credit: do this 3x a day)

Here are some benefits:

Less physical tension

A sense of almost immediate inner calmness

Feeling more “centered”

Who is with me this week for the 4-7-8 Challenge?