During times of stress and angst, a simple exercise can help calm our overstressed mind. It is one many people often forget, but if we are more mindful of this exercise when stress levels are increasing, we can support the body in naturally combatting stress. The simple act of breathing can help us relieve a number of health conditions. However, there is a bit of technique to reap the benefits of a more relaxed brain and healthier body.

If needing to calm your mind or regroup a bit, try this short little exercise.

Start by sitting or standing up straight, yet relaxed.

Breathe deeply from the belly – to check this put your hand on your belly button while breathing in and out through your nose. Your hand should be moving in and out.

Breath deeply for 15-20 minutes – yes, aim for six breaths a minute, but at any pace that’s much slower than what we typically breathe. It helps to find a quiet place to setting into your mindset.

Repeat this exercise daily. If 15 minutes is hard to find uninterrupted, start with 2-3 minutes and slowly work up to longer spurts of time. If you know you have something stressful and anxiety filled coming up-start on your breathing before it happens rather than waiting until you are overwhelmed.

Deep breathing can reduce anxiety, find your focus and help you live longer!

It also, helps to fight stress related disorders, has positive effects on the heart, improves attention and focus, and improves the nervous system.

Don’t hold your breath, start practicing deep breathing exercises today.