Mindful Breathing & Relaxation: A Simple Way to Find Calm
When life feels busy or overwhelming, it’s easy to forget something as simple as breathing. You might notice your shoulders tense, your chest tighten, or your thoughts start racing. In those moments, mindful breathing can become an anchor — a quiet space inside you that’s always available.
Why Breathing Matters
Our breath and our nervous system are deeply connected. When you breathe quickly or shallowly, your body stays in a state of alert — ready to respond to stress. Slow, mindful breathing tells your body it’s safe to relax.
Even a few deep breaths can:
Lower heart rate and tension
Bring more oxygen to the brain
Help you think and respond more clearly
Restore a sense of balance and presence
It’s one of the simplest and most powerful ways to bring calm to both your mind and body.
Try This Simple Practice
Find a comfortable seat and gently place one hand on your chest, one on your abdomen.
Take a slow breath in through your nose, letting your belly rise.
Pause for a brief moment.
Exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling your body soften.
Repeat for one to two minutes, focusing on the steady rhythm of your breath. If your mind wanders — that’s okay. Simply return to your next inhale.
A Gentle Reminder…
You don’t need long meditation sessions to feel the effects of mindful breathing. Just a few intentional breaths throughout your day — when you wake up, between meetings, or before sleep — can make a difference. Over time, this small habit helps you approach life with more ease and awareness.
If you’d like to explore more ways to calm your body and mind, learn about my Coping Skills Classes for Adults at sondhauscounseling.com/classes.
