Mindfulness Challenge Day 8: Take a Breath

A breathing exercise for today: 4-7-8 Breathing Technique

Sit with your back straight, inhale through your nose for 4 seconds. Hold your breath for 7 seconds. Exhale completely through your mouth for 8 seconds. Repeat three times.

This is a breathing technique that can be done ANYtime you feel stressed, overwhelmed, during an intense moment, or if you’re having trouble falling asleep. It is also beneficial when anxiety presents itself. Breathing techniques and practices such as this are designed to help deal with the “fight-or-flight” response, high blood pressure, and depression.

Mindful breathing is a relaxation response that will help you control your breathing. And with practice, becomes a natural habit that will turn negative responses into controlled and cognizant ones.

I challenge you to be mindful of your thoughts, emotions, responses, and actions today. When you find yourself in a challenging circumstance, such as those listed above, take a breath and mindfully BREATHE.

Make today amazing,

~Coach Ashley