There are many relaxation techniques to choose from. Yet, many require longer time and space to practice, which is not always available to us in the moment of stress. So what to do fast, now and what will take the stress away? Breath it out!
No one can avoid all stress, but you can counteract its detrimental effects by learning how to produce the relaxation response, a state of deep rest that is the polar opposite of the stress response. The relaxation response puts the brakes on stress and brings your body and mind back into a state of equilibrium.
When the relaxation response is activated, your:
- heart rate slows down
- breathing becomes slower and deeper
- blood pressure stabilizes
- muscles relax
- blood flow to the brain increases
Thanks to practicing breathing you have access to all the above at any moment, right when you needed because no special clothes or space is required. To help you choose which what works for you, below is the list of 3 breathing techniques worth trying:
