Yoga3 min read
4-7-8 breathing: three minutes to calm down
A simple breathing technique you can use at your desk, before a big meeting or before bed.
Under stress, our breathing turns short and shallow. Lengthening the exhale is the fastest way to tell your nervous system that you are safe.
How to do it
- Inhale through your nose for 4 counts
- Hold the breath for 7 counts
- Exhale slowly through your mouth for 8 counts
- Repeat for 4 rounds
If you feel light-headed, shorten the counts but keep the ratio. Practice every evening for a week and you'll notice falling asleep gets easier.