Deep breathing activates the body’s relaxation response, reducing cortisol levels and immediately lowering stress. By focusing on slow, deliberate breaths, you calm the nervous system and create a sense of immediate mental clarity.

1. Deep breathing techniques like diaphragmatic breathing work by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. When you take slow, deep breaths, you:

• Reduce heart rate
• Lower blood pressure
• Decrease muscle tension
• Interrupt the body’s stress response cycle

Specific technique: Try the 4-7-8 method

• Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds
• Hold the breath for 7 seconds
• Exhale slowly through your mouth for 8 seconds
• Repeat 4-5 times