Being stressed is not fun for anyone, but did you know that it’s also bad for your health? Long-term or chronic stress puts you at increased risk of heart disease, weight gain, memory impairment, and other serious health conditions (Mayo Clinic, 2021).
Box breathing, a technique employed by the U.S. Navy Seals, is a simple and effective way to lower stress on the spot. Follow these steps to start destressing today:
- Breathe out slowly, releasing all the air from your lungs.
- Breathe in through your nose as you slowly count to four in your head. Be conscious of how the air fills your lungs and stomach.
- Hold your breath for a count of four.
- Exhale for another count of four.
- Hold your breath again for a count of four.
- Repeat for three to four rounds.
Practice 1-2 times per day for daily benefits. Read more about box breathing here: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/box-breathing-benefits/
Mayo Clinic (2021). Chronic stress puts your health at risk. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037