Obviously, we're not talking about breathing throughout the day. We're talking about breathing to feel a sense of relief and peace. It's important to slow down and take a moment for yourself every now and then. This type of intentional breathing is one of the easiest ways to regulate your feelings and emotions. It can be like a reset button if you're having a rough day. Here are a couple of techniques to escape the chaos in your mind.
Re-center & Focus
Deep Breathing. Most people are taking short breaths throughout the day. The deep breathing technique is very relaxing. Find a comfortable place to sit. Breathe in through your nose. Let your belly fill with air. Breathe out through your nose. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly. Feel your belly rise and fall as you take your elongated breaths. The hand on your belly should move more than the one on your chest.
Breath Focus. This is a subcategory of deep breathing. Think of an image in your head and a word or phrase to help you feel more relaxed. Close your eyes. Breathe in through your nose and try to feel it throughout your body. Breathe out and imagine all the stress and anxiety leaving your body with your breath. Now, when you breathe in, say the phrase you chose in your mind. When you breathe out, say in your mind that you are breathing out all your stress. Continue this for ten to twenty minutes.
There are plenty of other breathing techniques out there, but these two are simple and effective if you only have a few minutes out of your day to complete them. Stay calm. Relax. Breathe!