Ever find yourself feeling overwhelmed or stressed through the day? Box breathing can really help and can be done anywhere.
Below, you’ll find some more information about box breathing and its benefits, along with an example of a simple box breathing exercise you can feel free to try.
What is box breathing and how does it work?
The box breathing technique is often referred to as “resetting your breath.” It is an effective strategy that is simple to do and may reduce stress levels through re-centering your body. Box breathing is commonly used among individuals with high-stress jobs when the body is in fight-or-flight mode.
Box breathing is shown to help with stress reduction and can promote relaxation. It can also enhance mood and can even improve your focus and concentration. Box breathing can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system which is in charge of helping your body feel calm through controlling your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing. Although this breathing exercise can be done anywhere, it is helpful if you can find a quiet space in order to reduce distractions.
Let’s get started
This breathing exercise can be done anywhere and does not require equipment. It can be done while standing or sitting. When first trying out box breathing, you can start by sitting upright in a chair, with your feet planted on the ground. This can help you focus on your breathing when first trying out the exercise. Once you get familiar with the exercise, it can become easier to practice in different settings or postures. Follow the diagram below and these steps to begin:
Step 1: Focus on maintaining an upright posture and relaxing your shoulders. Slowly count to 4 as you breathe in through your nose.
Step 2: Hold your breath for a count of 4.
Step 3: Exhale slowly through your mouth for a 4 count.
Step 4: Repeat steps 1 to 3, ideally 4 times, until you feel re-centered. This may feel like the release of muscle tension, being in control of your breathing or you feeling more relaxed or calm. This can be completed as often as you want throughout the day.
Why is box breathing effective?
Box breathing can be a powerful tool when you begin to feel anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed. The great thing about box breathing is that it can be done anywhere and anytime, making it a useful relaxation technique.
Box breathing works by distracting your mind as you focus on your breath and count to four with the aim of returning your breathing to its normal rhythm. This can help calm your nervous system and reduce the feeling of stress within your body, while clearing your mind, relaxing your body and improving focus.
If you are interested in more relaxation techniques, or ever feel like you need support, please reach out. Our mental health professionals can help.
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This blog originally appeared on Lifemark.ca and was written by Elise Kopman & Reem Al-Kas, 2nd year OT students at University of Western Ontario and Keith Hanson from Lifemark.