3-minute breathing exercise to relieve tension

Many of us are feeling anxious as we navigate this time of uncertainty.

Deep breathing is one of the best ways to lower anxiety and stress. This is because when you breathe deeply, it sends a message to your brain to relax. Imagine it like pressing your body's 'relax' button. This animated video guides you through a simple 3-minute breathing exercise, sometimes referred to as 'box breathing', that you can use any time you need to reduce tension and anxiety.

Tips:

• Before you get started, make sure that you're seated upright in a comfortable chair with your feet flat on the floor. Try to go somewhere quiet where you can focus on your breathing.
• Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth.
• Try to use your stomach muscles (therefore your diaphragm) to drive your breath rather than your chest. By gently placing your hands at the bottom of your ribs, you can feel the air going in and out.
• When you begin, you may feel tired or a bit dizzy, but with practice, the technique should become easier and should feel more natural.