You have been on the go all day. Assignments due, meetings to attend, phone calls to answer, commitments calling, errand to run. You can barely catch your breath. This is the best time to use the 5 Breath Rule to slow your body down and de-stress.
Here is what is happening. When we are in stressed out mode, going from one thing to another at 100 miles per hour, our body is in fight or flight mode. Our breathing is shallow and our body is not getting the oxygen that it needs. The breath is coming straight from our upper chest. Our cortisol level is way up. This can keep us stressed out and our bodies maxed out. We are on the road to burnout. Pretty soon we might reach for some candy or visit the break room to find something to munch on, because our energy is sagging. Or go around the corner to the coffee shop to get a triple latte’.
This is the perfect time to institute the 5 breath rule. I have found this immensely helpful when I am experiencing anxiety and wound up tight. Here are the steps:
- Stop. Crucial to the process. Stop what you are doing. Preferably sit down. Sit up straight with shoulders back. You can also do this lying down if you are where you can do this.
- Close your eyes, take a slow, deep’ from-the-belly breath, hold it for a few seconds, then breath out slowly. Do this 4 more times. If you have a few minutes continue to do this for a while longer.
- Slowly open your eyes, take one more breath and move to your next task.
This tool is very helpful in re-oxygenating your whole body, lowering your cortisol level, slowing your heartbeat and blood pressure and giving you an overall feeling of relaxation. If you live a very stress-filled life, this can be a life-saver and a day-saver. You will be much more likely to get more accomplished when you are in this calmer state.
I have used this myself with great success. I have even used it at bedtime when I feel too wound up to sleep. Go ahead. Try it. You will be amazed at what a difference it makes!
Do you need help with your stressed out life and possibly overeating? Contact me here and let’s have a strategy call to talk about your challenges and how I might help you. I’d love to hear from you.
Jane Springer is a certified Life, Wellness and Style Coach who assists women in taking care of themselves, in body, mind and spirit. She coaches women who want to lose weight, avoid diabetes, and feel great. She also helps them thrive after divorce. She also helps them to clear their closets of old clothes and outdated attitudes, so they can shine and feel confident.