Stress and anxiety are never fun to have to deal with. But there’s a simple technique that you can do anytime anywhere to help reduce it quickly. The 4-7-8 breathing technique is just the answer to help reduce your stress. Today in this blog post we’ll go over how it helps and how to get started adding it into your daily routine.
This breathing technique was developed by Dr. Andrew Weil. Dr. Weil is a well known integrative medicine physician who has written many books on natural health and healing. He has combined different breathing techniques from ancient yogi practices and modern relaxation techniques to create this powerful relaxation tool.
Benefits of 4-7-8 Breathing
There are many benefits of the 4-7-8 Breathing Technique. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, lower blood pressure and promote overall relaxation.
It’s also great because you can do it anyplace and anywhere. You don’t need any special equipment to do so. This can help quiet your mind and reduce any racing thoughts as well.
How to do the 4-7-8 Breathing
Thankfully this technique is easy to learn and only takes a matter of seconds to reap the benefits.
- Find a quiet and comfortable place where you can sit. Sit up straight with your feet on the ground. Take a few deep breaths to relax your body.
- Deeply inhale through your nose for 4 counts
- Hold your breath for a count of 4
- Exhale through your mouth for a count of 8
- Repeat this 3 more times for a total of 4 breath cycles
Additional Tips for Success
Here are a few more tips to ensure you really get the most out of this technique.
Practice this technique twice a day. If you’re not sure when to fit it in, try the beginning and end to your days. This way you start the day with less stress and end with less stress as well.
Use a timer if you need to to help with your counting.
Focus your attention on your breath to let your thoughts drift away.
Let your breath flow naturally.
In the end, this is a super simple technique which you can do anytime anywhere to help reduce your stress. Incorporating this technique into your daily routine can greatly help your overall well-being.
