Take a Deep Breath

The advice to “take a deep breath” is so common it’s cliché, but people have known for centuries that deep, slow breathing calms your nerves.

Some people find their inner calm through mindfulness meditation or a restorative yoga class. Others decompress with a vigorous run, or even hobbies like gardening, cooking or simply being in nature can be a helpful relaxation technique.

One stress-management technique that’s always with you when you need it is the simple, act of breathing.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Inhale for a count of four.
2. Hold for a count of four.
3. Exhale for a count of four.
4. Wait for a count of four.
5. Repeat until you feel calm and centred again.