Mindful Breathing & Relaxation: A Simple Way to Find Calm

Neon sign reading “And Breathe” surrounded by green foliage — symbolizing mindful breathing, relaxation, and the calming power of nature.

When life feels busy or overwhelming, it’s easy to forget something as simple and powerful as breathing. You might notice your shoulders tense, your chest tighten, or your thoughts begin to race. In those moments, mindful breathing can become an anchor — a quiet space within you that’s always available.
Through gentle breathing exercises for relaxation and simple mindfulness breathing techniques, you can calm your body, steady your thoughts, and find your way back to balance.

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 or anxiety. Slow, mindful breathing tells your body it’s safe to relax.

Even a few deep, intentional breaths can:

  • Lower heart rate and muscle tension

  • Bring more oxygen to the brain

  • Help you think and respond more clearly

  • Restore a sense of calm and presence

It’s one of the simplest and most effective mindfulness breathing techniques for relaxation and anxiety relief — a way to bring steadiness and peace to both mind and body.

Try This Simple Practice

Find a comfortable seat and gently place one hand on your chest, one on your abdomen.

  1. Take a slow breath in through your nose, letting your belly rise.

  2. Pause for a brief moment.

  3. 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.

 

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Further reading and resources

APA. (2024, March 14). Relaxation techniques for mental wellness. American Psychological Association. Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/relaxation-techniques-for-mental-wellness

Harvard Health Publishing. (2024, July 24). Relaxation techniques: Breath control helps quell errant stress response. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/relaxation-techniques-breath-control-helps-quell-errant-stress-response

Psychology Today. (2024, September 25). The Benefits of Deep Breathing and Why It Works. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evidence-based-living/202409/the-benefits-of-deep-breathing-and-why-it-works

Solan, M. (2025, January 10). Ease anxiety and stress: Take a (belly) breather. Harvard Health Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/ease-anxiety-and-stress-take-a-belly-breather-201904261861

 

Rovena Sondhaus, MA, LMHC, CTP
Sondhaus Counseling Services, LLC

 
 

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Coping with Anxiety: Finding Steady Ground in Uncertain Times

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Building Calm: Coping Skills for Everyday Life